Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, THE NEW-YEAR MINE, by AMOS RUSSEL WELLS


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

THE NEW-YEAR MINE, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: Every year's a hidden mine
Last Line: Or only dust and ashes?
Subject(s): Holidays; New Year


Every year's a hidden mine;
Stoutly up, and work it!
What though anxious toil is thine?
Never think to shirk it.

Half the mine, as I am told,
Harbors dust and ashes;
Half the mine is precious gold, --
Ah, how bright it flashes!

Sink the shaft of Lazy Mind,
(What a dreadful bore, sir!)
Dust and ashes you will find,
That, and nothing more, sir!

Sink the shaft of Earnest Heart, --
Lo, the treasure glances,
Gleaming gay in every part
Where your pick advances!

See, my lad, the New-Year Mine
Bright with promise-flashes!
Will you dig for treasure fine,
Or only dust and ashes?





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