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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


DAVID by ELEANOR G. R. YOUNG

First Line: THERE ON THE HILLS
Last Line: AND COMMUNE WITH GOD.
Subject(s): EXILES; SOLITUDE; LONELINESS;

There on the hills,
While the bright stars shone down,
Do you suppose he dreamed
Of Saul's great court?
Of foolish pomp,
Of bitter, lonely days,
Of kingly duties,
Exile, trust betrayed?

In the still watches
Of the Eastern night.
David, alone upon those distant hills,
Lifted his heart in praise,
His voice in song
Until the throbbing notes
Of his crude harp
Floated out gently
On the silent night—
"Try me, oh God,
And see that I am true.
Dark though the hours may be
I will lift up mine eyes
Unto the hills—
Thy everlasting hills,
And find my Light."

Thus David sang
Throughout the long night-watch.

Into the court of Saul
The shepherd-lad
Serenely walked,
Knowing that always,
Out upon the hills,
The ancient, everlasting hills,
He could be silent
And commune with God.



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