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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


MONUMENTAL INSCRIPTION by FELICIA DOROTHEA HEMANS

Poet Analysis

First Line: EARTH! GUARD WHAT HERE WE LAY IN HOLY TRUST
Last Line: THEY WERE OF THEE, AND THOU HAST CLAIMED THINE OWN!
Subject(s): GRAVES; TOMBS; TOMBSTONES;

EARTH! guard what here we lay in holy trust,
That which hath left our home a darkened place,
Wanting the form, the smile, now veiled with dust,
The light departed with our loveliest face.
Yet from thy bonds our sorrow's hope is free --
We have but lent the beautiful to thee.

But thou, O Heaven! keep, keep what thou hast taken,
And with our treasure keep our hearts on high;
The spirit meek, and yet by pain unshaken,
The faith, the love, the lofty constancy --
Guide us where these are with our sisters flown --
They were of Thee, and thou hast claimed thine own!



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