Was it for this I braved a pathless, dark, And chilling void, in travail while the hiss Of Death grew loud and near; from that abyss To stumble back, enfolding in the arc Of love-warm arms an infant life -- a spark I fanned to ruddy glow? Was it for this I succored childish needs -- healed with a kiss Each wound that left on flesh or pride its mark? Ah yes, for this I led my stalwart son In paths of rectitude; abhorring vice And choosing honor's way, he tossed the draft That brimmed Youth's cup. Bereft and old, I run Through War's red ledger -- scan the costly price I paid for laurel wreath and marble shaft. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...A SONG OF ETERNITY IN TIME by SIDNEY LANIER SYMPHONIC STUDIES (AFTER ROBERT SCHUMANN) by EMMA LAZARUS DOMESDAY BOOK: AT FAIRBANKS by EDGAR LEE MASTERS THE GREAT HUNT by CARL SANDBURG ONLY OF THEE AND ME by LOUIS UNTERMEYER THE SEVEN AGAINST THEBES: CHORUS by AESCHYLUS THE FAIRIES by WILLIAM ALLINGHAM |