Poetry Explorer

Classic and Contemporary Poetry

TO A YOUNG FRIEND ON HIS ARRIVING AT CAMBRIDGE WET by WILLIAM COWPER

Poet Analysis

First Line: IF GIDEON'S FLEECE, WHICH DRENCHED WITH DEW
Last Line: NOT DROUGHT ON OTHERS, BUT MUCH DEW ON THEE!
(WHEN NO RAIN HAD FALLEN THERE)

IF Gideon's fleece, which drenched with dew he found,
While moisture none refreshed the herbs around,
Might fitly represent the Church endowed
With heavenly gifts to heathens not allowed;
In pledge, perhaps, of favours from on high,
Thy locks were wet when others' locks were dry.
Heaven grant us half the omen,--may we see
Not drought on others, but much dew on thee!



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