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Classic and Contemporary Poetry
THROUGH TOIL, by AMOS LUNT HINDS
First Line: I hold it better far that one should rule
Last Line: To sluggish souls, -- nor his transcendent peace.
Subject(s): Labor & Laborers; Work; Workers
First Line: I hold it better far that one should rule
Last Line: To sluggish souls, -- nor his transcendent peace.
Subject(s): Labor & Laborers; Work; Workers
I HOLD it better far that one should rule
Imperious tempers with a sinewy will,
Than, amiable and passionless of soul,
With folded hands amid life's din sit still.
Since, though ofttimes the battle goeth hard,
Strength comes with struggle, and wild olive leaves
Twined round a brow begrimed and battle-scarred
Mean more to noble men and nobler gods
Than costliest purples of inglorious ease.
Though tired men through toil-encumbered years
Seek restful havens, lotus-lands of dreams,
Who that hath seen doth evermore forget
What glory o'er his burnished armor gleams
Who fights with grosser self, or crushes down
With stalwart blows the vices of his age,
Thridding the austere heights of chaste renown?
The victor's joy Fate nevermore reveals
To sluggish souls, -- nor his transcendent peace.
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