Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, A THOUGHT FOR WASHING DAY, by JULIA WARD HOWE


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

A THOUGHT FOR WASHING DAY, by                 Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography
First Line: The clothes-line is a rosary
Last Line: Are love and toil and prayer.
Subject(s): Clothing & Dress; Laundry & Laundering


The clothes-line is a Rosary
Of household help and care;
Each little saint the Mother loves
is represented there.

And when across her garden plot
She walks, with thoughtful heed,
I should not wonder if she told
Each garment for a bead.

For Celia's scarlet stockings hang
Beside Amelia's skirt,
And Bilbo's breeches, which of late
Were sadly smeared with dirt.

You kerchief small wiped bitter tears
For ill-success at school;
This pinafore was torn in strife
'Twixt Fred and little Jule.

And that device of finer web,
And over-costly lace,
Adorned our Eldest when she danced
At some gay fashion place.

A stranger passing, I salute
The Household in its wear,
And smile to think how near of kin
Are love and toil and prayer.





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