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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


THE 'CANNON FEVER' by CHARLES TENNYSON TURNER

First Line: THE TIDE OF THINGS SHOULD FLOW LESS TROUBLED, SURE
Last Line: AND BARREN BATTLE HATH HIS HOPES AND FEARS!
Subject(s): WAR;

The tide of things should flow less troubled, sure;
To clear its current sages do impart
Their wisdom, and the poet's pitying heart
Pours in its crystal tribute, bright and pure;
But still doth War present a mighty lure
To many minds; a charm which lulls to rest
Compunctious thought, and mails the obdurate breast
With triple-plated iron, to endure
The shock of children's cries and woman's tears,
Untouch'd, unsoften'd, and without a sigh;
O Glory without Honour! Helms and spears
School to a ruthless calm the warrior's eye;
'Carnage' he means, when he cries 'Victory',
And barren battle hath his hopes and fears!



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