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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


OUR FUTURE by JOHN HENRY NEWMAN

Poet Analysis

First Line: DID WE BUT SEE
Last Line: A PILGRIM PALE, WITH PAUL'S SAD GIRDLE BOUND.

DID we but see,
When life first open'd, how our journey lay
Between its earliest and its closing day,
Or view ourselves, as we one time shall be,
Who strive for the high prize, such sight would break
The youthful spirit, though bold for Jesu's sake.

But Thou, dear Lord!
Whilst I traced out bright scenes which were to come,
Isaac's pure blessings, and a verdant home,
Didst spare me, and withhold Thy fearful word;
Wiling me year by year, till I am found
A pilgrim pale, with Paul's sad girdle bound.



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