Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, THE HERITAGE, by SIEGFRIED SASSOON


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THE HERITAGE, by                 Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography
First Line: Cry out on time that he may take away
Last Line: Not we, but others, hear the bird that sings.
Subject(s): Soldiers' Writings


CRY out on Time that he may take away
Your cold philosophies that give no hint
Of spirit-quickened flesh; fall down and pray
That Death come never with a face of flint:
Death is our heritage; with Life we share
The sunlight that must own his darkening hour:
Within his very presence yet we dare
To gather gladness like a fading flower.

For even as this, our joy not long may live
Perfect; and most in change the heart can trace
The miracle of life and human things:
All we have held to destiny we give;
Dawn glimmers on the soul-forsaken face;
Not we, but others, hear the bird that sings.






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