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Classic and Contemporary Poetry
GUEST, by ROSALIE B. GEER
First Line: Whose undaunted knocking breaks the
Last Line: —but, oh, loved and transient guest, make thy visit long!
Subject(s): Memory
First Line: Whose undaunted knocking breaks the
Last Line: —but, oh, loved and transient guest, make thy visit long!
Subject(s): Memory
WHOSE undaunted knocking breaks the silence of my door?
"'Tis thy wayward Happiness, seeking home once more."
Why return? For willingly and oft thou dost depart!
"I have found no haven save the twilight of thy heart."
If I make thee welcome now, wilt thou long remain?
"Till resistless restlessness drive me forth again."
Here is safe repose for thee, where hushed stillness calls
Through corridors unechoing and shadowy dim halls.
Thy room is sweet with lavender, with placid linen cool.
On thy slumber dreams will fall as petals on a pool.
In the lulling dusk about, a shimmering will be,
Memories in robes of silver minister to thee.
From their fans of scented feathers in slow rhythm swayed,
Odors heavy with remembrance on the heart are laid.
There will move, to deepen calm and purer sleeping soothe,
O'er thy tranquil brow and eyelids hands serene and smooth.
For I know that with thy waking, weird desires will cry
In the stealing winds that pass my bolts and barriers by.
They will draw thee forth with longing infinitely strong,
—But, oh, loved and transient guest, make thy visit long!
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