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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

AT NANKING - 1937 by EMMA M. LARSON

First Line: THE NEW CHURCH AT NANKING HAD ROSE-RED ROOF
Last Line: GRANT PARDON, GOD, FOR FAIR GIFT TAKEN BACK.
Subject(s): CHURCHES; CATHEDRALS;
The new church at Nanking had rose-red roof
Of curving tiles that would delight God's eye.
With ceremonies honorable, indeed,
They gave it to Him one day in July.

Before full moon could lend it lustrous crown
Reluctant brushes smeared the tiles with black.
A red roof lures the enemy's high planes;
Grant pardon, God, for fair gift taken back.



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