Classic and Contemporary Poetry
A VALENTINE, by WARREN K. BILLINGS First Line: Life's joys and sorrows rise and ever wane Last Line: Just that, and nothing more. Subject(s): Grief; Happiness; Holidays; Keller, Helen (1880-1968); Life; Love; Valentine's Day; Sorrow; Sadness; Joy; Delight | ||||||||
Life's joys and sorrows rise and ever wane On the horizon of our nights and days; Whether we see them come and go or not We feel the passing of their searing blaze. Anger we know, -- and chagrin, -- and remorse; Ambition flaunts its banners in our face; The empty halls of power ring to our stride, Sometimes, for a brief space. But never long do any of these remain; And even love is but a passing flare. Immortal Loves are few and far between, And even lasting friendship oft is rare. Still, were a wish of mine to be fulfilled -- One favor giv'n to even up the score --, I'd ask but lasting friendliness with you, Just that, and nothing more. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...THE STUDY OF HAPPINESS by KENNETH KOCH SO MUCH HAPPINESS by NAOMI SHIHAB NYE CROWD CONDITIONS by JOHN ASHBERY I WILL NOT BE CLAIMED by MARVIN BELL THE BOOK OF THE DEAD MAN (#21): 1. ABOUT THE DEAD MAN'S HAPPINESS by MARVIN BELL |
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