Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, NOTHING TO SPARE, by WALT MASON



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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

NOTHING TO SPARE, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: The hungry children cry for bread, and I
Last Line: And gas.
Subject(s): Cost Of Living; Depressions, Economic; Hunger; Money; Poverty; Recessions


THE hungry children cry for bread, and I would gladly see them fed; my bosom
bleeds for little ones who have no doughnuts, pies or buns, and I would help
them out, I ween, but need my coin for gasoline. In yonder hut a human drove is

gathered round an empty stove; the father long has had disease—an influenza

in his knees—the mother's washed for folks in town until her health is
broken down. Grim famine in that shack abides, and all the wretched inmates
rides. I'd gladly help them in their plight, and bring them food and warmth and

light, and make their empty kettle boil, but need my coin for gas and oil. As I

go jaunting near and far, in my upholstered touring car, I see around me signs
of want—and they disturb my little jaunt. I'd like to aid the ones who
starve, and give them ducks and hens to carve. With loaded arms I'd like to go
wherever there is want or woe, wherever there is grief or care, and spread some

warmth and sunshine there! I'd like to do it, but, alas, I need my coin for oil

and gas.





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