Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, DEATH, by FLORENCE EARLE COATES


Poetry Explorer

Classic and Contemporary Poetry

DEATH, by                    
First Line: I am the key that parts the gates of fame
Last Line: The waking from a dream that man calls—life.
Subject(s): Immortality; Religion; Theology


I am the key that parts the gates of Fame;
I am the cloak that covers cowering Shame;
I am the final goal of every race;
I am the storm-tossed spirit's resting-place.

The messenger of sure and swift relief,
Welcomed with wailings and reproachful grief,
The friend of those that have no friend but me,
I break all chains, and set all captives free.

I am the cloud that, when earth's day is done,
An instant veils an unextinguished sun;
I am the brooding hush that follows strife,
The waking from a dream that man calls—life.





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