Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, THE FAIRIES' GIFTS, by JOHN GODFREY SAXE


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

THE FAIRIES' GIFTS, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: In a far-away country, some centuries since
Last Line: "is the properest use we can make of our eyes!"
Subject(s): Fairies; Elves


IN a far-away country, some centuries since
(If the story is false, it is certainly pleasant),
Two fairies attended the birth of a Prince,
And, after their custom, each brought him a present.

"I bring him," one whispered, "the eagle's bright vision,
So keen and wide-reaching that even a fly
The monarch may mark with the sharpest precision,
However remote, at a glance of his eye."

"An excellent gift for a sovereign, no doubt,"
The other responds, "is a good pair of eyes:
But an eagle would scorn to be peering about,
With intent to remark the behavior of flies!

"And so to your present I beg to unite
A gift of my choosing, -- well suited to kings,
And others no less; to the eagle's keen sight
I add his contempt for all trivial things!"

"In sooth," said the first, "I confess that I think
Your cautious restriction exceedingly wise;
How often it happens that merely to wink
Is the properest use we can make of our eyes!"





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