When I am gone, stop not the dance, nor cause Song to be stilled, nor any glass to be Set down undrained. Life had its bitter flaws, But I would want no hot tears shed for me. For I enjoyed the song, the dance, the wine, And often was my glass dashed to the ground From my unwilling hand by asinine Grief that was quick to cry its sorrow-sound Down all the lanes of joy where laughter reigned. Tears are a burden. Sorrow lasts too long. If by my going your great heart is pained, Lift high your glass. Remember with a song. Lament me, if you will, but do not cry. Mourning is more sincere when eyes are dry. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...SONG:SO WHY DOES THIS DEAD CARNATION by HAYDEN CARRUTH THE WILLOW by GEORGIA DOUGLAS JOHNSON THE GOLDEN WEDDING OF STERLING AND SARAH LANIER by SIDNEY LANIER FREE FANTASIA ON JAPANESE THEMES by AMY LOWELL |