Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, 1914: 4. THE DEAD, by RUPERT BROOKE


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1914: 4. THE DEAD, by                 Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography
First Line: These hearts were woven of human joys and cares
Last Line: A width, a shining peace, under the night.
Subject(s): Life Change Events; Soldiers; Soldiers' Writings; World War I - Casualties


These hearts were woven of human joys and cares,
Washed marvellously with sorrow, swift to mirth.
The years had given them kindness. Dawn was theirs,
And sunset, and the colours of the earth.
These had seen movement, and heard music; known
Slumber and waking; loved; gone proudly friended;
Felt the quick stir of wonder; sat alone;
Touched flowers and furs and cheeks. All this is ended.

There are waters blown by changing winds to laughter
And lit by the rich skies, all day. And after,
Frost, with a gesture, stays the waves that dance
And wandering loveliness. He leaves a white
Unbroken glory, a gathered radiance,
A width, a shining peace, under the night.








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