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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


THE ODE OF YOUTH: INTRODUCTION by LEWIS MORRIS (1833-1907)

First Line: NOW UPON THE TREE OF LIFE THERE RISE
Last Line: AND BIRDLIKE THOUGHTS THAT SING.
Subject(s): YOUTH;

Now upon the tree of life there rise
Before our wondering eyes
Two strange new flowers of varied hue.
The tree is grown,
The flowers are blown,
There is nought wanting to its early sweetness;
But with a fair completeness,
The purple bloom and white
Fill the entranced, admiring sight.
The tree is grown, the tree is strong;
Oh! dear to art and song!
Fair time of Flowers! within whose chalice sweet
Lurks Youth with rosy feet,
And Love with purple folded wing,
And birdlike thoughts that sing.



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