Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, A SHROPSHIRE LAD: 56. THE DAY OF BATTLE, by ALFRED EDWARD HOUSMAN


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A SHROPSHIRE LAD: 56. THE DAY OF BATTLE, by                 Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography
First Line: Far I hear the bugle blow
Last Line: And take the bullet in your brain.'
Alternate Author Name(s): Housman, A. E.
Subject(s): War


'Far I hear the bugle blow
To call me where I would not go,
And the guns begin the song,
"Soldier, fly or stay for long."

'Comrade, if to turn and fly
Made a soldier never die
Fly I would, for who would not?
'Tis sure no pleasure to be shot.

'But since the man that runs away
Lives to die another day,
And cowards' funerals, when they come,
Are not wept so well at home,

'Therefore, though the best is bad,
Stand and do the best, my lad;
Stand and fight and see your slain,
And take the bullet in your brain.'






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