Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, FAIRIES' SONG, by JOHN COWPER POWYS


Poetry Explorer

Classic and Contemporary Poetry

FAIRIES' SONG, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: North and south and east and west
Last Line: Seeking still some work to do.
Subject(s): Death; Fairies; Life; Singing & Singers; Wandering & Wanderers; Dead, The; Elves


North and South and East and West,
We have roamed the wide world thro',
Without slumber, without rest,
Seeking still some work to do.

Out of Death to bring forth Life,
Out of Pain to bring forth Joy,
Hands and feet and wings and breath
We have spared not to employ.

Mortals should you need our aid,
Walk by moonlight on the green;
Tread the circles we have made,
Kiss your hands to us unseen.

Pluck the wild wood rose that trails
With the blackthorn fast entwined.
Clear its leaves from slugs and snails,
See no canker lurks behind.

Dip its leaves in forest pool,
Place it lightly on your knee,
Then upon a milk-maid's stool
Sit and see what you shall see!

North and South and East and West,
We have roamed the wide world thro',
Without slumber, without rest,
Seeking still some work to do.





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