Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, THE HOUSEKEEPER, by CHARLES LAMB


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

THE HOUSEKEEPER, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: The frugal snail, with forecast of repose
Last Line: Knock when you will, -- he's sure to be at home.
Alternate Author Name(s): Elia
Subject(s): Mollusks; Snails


THE frugal snail, with forecast of repose,
Carries his house with him where'er he goes;
Peeps out, -- and if there comes a shower of rain,
Retreats to his small domicile again.
Touch but a tip of him, a horn, -- 't is well, --
He curls up in his sanctuary shell.
He's his own landlord, his own tenant; stay
Long as he will, he dreads no Quarter Day.
Himself he boards and lodges; both invites
And feats himself; sleeps with himself o' nights.
He spares the upholsterer trouble to procure
Chattels; himself is his own furniture,
And his sole riches. Wheresoe'er he roam, --
Knock when you will, -- he's sure to be at home.




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