Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, MY POOR NEIGHBOR, by RAY CLARKE ROSE


Poetry Explorer

Classic and Contemporary Poetry

MY POOR NEIGHBOR, by                    
First Line: My neighbor hath a lordly pile
Last Line: While I have home—and you, my dear!
Subject(s): Blessings; Family Life; Fathers; Happiness; Neighbors; Poverty; Wealth; Relatives; Joy; Delight; Riches; Fortunes


My neighbor hath a lordly pile—
A palace reared of polished stone,
In which he lives in lavish style,
Alone.
I look upon his wealth and smile
In rare content, while on my knee
A wee one rides and crows at me—
My own!
My neighbor's is a regal place;
But, oh! it hath no laughing face
Of childhood there for sympathy.

My neighbor's garden blooms are fine;
They rise in hedges topped with gold,
And all their radiance is mine.
I see their blossom sheaths unfold;
I breathe their fragrance day by day,
And, aye, they nod and smile my way,
Though I be poor.
My neighbor's lawn is green and wide,
And here and there a lofty tree
With spreading arms stands to divide
Its store of graceful shade with me;
And oh! I'm sure
That when the verdant days are gone
New charms will greet me from the lawn!

My neighbor hath a host of cares,
For he must guard his costly wares
And golden hoard;
While I, crowned with domestic bliss,
May gain a fond parental kiss
He can't afford.
I and my neighbor never meet,
An alley separates our lands;
My house is in a modest street,
His on the drive—see, there he stands!
Poor man; he 's naught but gold and gear;
While I have home—and you, my dear!





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