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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


FIFTY FAGGOTS by PHILIP EDWARD THOMAS

Poet Analysis

First Line: THERE THEY STAND, ON THEIR ENDS, THE FIFTY FAGGOTS
Last Line: FORESEE OR MORE CONTROL THAN ROBIN AND WREN.
Subject(s): ENVIRONMENT; TREES; WORLD WAR I; ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION; ECOLOGY; CONSERVATION; FIRST WORLD WAR;

There they stand, on their ends, the fifty faggots
That once were underwood of hazel and ash
In Jenny Pinks's Copse. Now, by the hedge
Close packed, they make a thicket fancy alone
Can creep through with the mouse and wren. Next Spring
A blackbird or a robin will nest there,
Accustomed to them, thinking they will remain
Whatever is for ever to a bird.
This Spring it is too late; the swift has come,
'Twas a hot day for carrying them up:
Better they will never warm me, though they must
Light several Winters' fires. Before they are done
The war will have ended, many other things
Have ended, maybe, that I can no more
Foresee or more control than robin and wren.



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