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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


IN MEMORIAM A.H.H.: 44 by ALFRED TENNYSON

Poet Analysis

First Line: HOW FARES IT WITH THE HAPPY DEAD?
Last Line: IN THAT HIGH PLACE, AND TELL THEE ALL.
Subject(s): HALLAM, ARTHUR HENRY (1811-1833); DEATH; MOURNING; FRIENDSHIP;

How fares it with the happy dead?
For here the man is more and more;
But he forgets the days before
God shut the doorways of his head.

The days have vanish'd, tone and tint,
And yet perhaps the hoarding sense
Gives out at times -- he knows not whence --
A little flash, a mystic hint;

And in the long harmonious years --
If Death so taste Lethean springs --
May some dim touch of earthly things
Surprise thee ranging with thy peers.

If such a dreamy touch should fall,
O, turn thee round, resolve the doubt;
My guardian angel will speak out
In that high place, and tell thee all.



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