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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


A RETROSPECT by WALTER SAVAGE LANDOR

Poet Analysis

First Line: THERE ARE SOME WISHES THAT MAY START
Last Line: HOW GRAVE THE SMILE HE SMILES ON ME!'

THERE are some wishes that may start
Nor cloud the brow nor sting the heart.
Gladly then would I see how smiled
One who now fondles with her child;
How smiled she but six years ago,
Herself a child, or nearly so.
Yes, let me bring before my sight
The silken tresses chained up tight,
The tiny fingers tipt with red
By tossing up the strawberry-bed;
Half-open lips, long violet eyes,
A little rounder with surprise,
And then (her chin against the knee)
'Mama! who can that stranger be?
How grave the smile he smiles on me!'



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