They knelt before the goddess known as Fame To see who might display his love the best, And flattering, hopeful words to her addressed, For in her smiles, they knew, lay all their aim. I wondered why these divers people came, Neglecting all of what life calls the best, To lead a life of turmoil and unrest For such a trifle as a glorious name. I wondered why these beggars would consent To serve a deity so hard to please. Then I looked up and saw the foremost few On whom her fondest blessings had been spent, And then I knew why men sank lowly to their knees Beseeching Fame. This knowing, I knelt too. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...BOTHWELL: PART 4 by WILLIAM EDMONSTOUNE AYTOUN WASHING-DAY by ANNA LETITIA BARBAULD SPOON RIVER ANTHOLOGY: GEORGE GRAY by EDGAR LEE MASTERS NOCTURNE OF REMEMBERED SPRING by CONRAD AIKEN |