What did I give you, I who gave so much, That you have not returned a thousand-fold? I shall remember when I am grown old Your happy ways, the comfort of your touch. What was unworthy in me you despised Yet taught me patiently your nobler creed, Letting me see by word and kindly deed How perfect friendship could be realized. Myself I gave you -- selfish, cramped, and blind Only -- I loved you -- and your silver strength, Your joyous heart and understanding mind Taught me your wise humanity at length. You gave me back myself, renewed and whole; Your handiwork -- a comprehending soul. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...SONGS OF INNOCENCE: INTRODUCTION by WILLIAM BLAKE THE HOUSE OF HOSPITALITIES by THOMAS HARDY FAREWELL TO CYNTHIA by FRANKLIN PIERCE ADAMS AEOLIAN HARP (2) by WILLIAM ALLINGHAM I WOULD NOT LIFT THY VEIL by A. LOUISE ASHWORTH IN MEMORY OF MY DEAR GRANDCHILD ELIZABETH .. WHO DECEASED 1665 by ANNE BRADSTREET |