Classic Poem

Come nearer; I would feel your loving presence;
While closer, closer drops a shadowy wing
Not to be lifted more. Loop up the curtain,
So; for I would look once more upon the spring,
And catch her warm, bright smile before I go.
And 'tis the last, last time you know.

See, love, how softly gleams the golden sunset —
How gently doth the day resign its throne!
It seems like faith! As if a gleam of morning
Athwart the night's advancing darkness shone.
And yonder soars a bird; hark! how he sings,
E'en while the cold dews gather on his wings!

So would I sing; as nearer yet and nearer
This last night gathers, and the sun goes down;
But oh, my strength is gone! Sing for me, dearest,
A song about the Day Star and a Crown,
And the near dawn, with its transcendant glow;
It is not far beyond the night, I know.

You cannot sing? and yet you are not weeping;
Your calm is dreadful — like a beaten sea
When first the storm scoops down! the wild recoiling
Of gathered waves will come, and fiercer be
For this dread hush, this anguish still and deep.
There's healing comes of tears — would you could weep!

Grieve not so terribly; this bitter parting
That bows you so is only for a night,
Beyond it lies the radiant To-morrow,
With sweet, clear skies, forever calm and bright,
Then wait in patience: grief is short, and pain,
But joy is long — we shall not part again.

I need not ask that you will not forget me,
While the world whelms you with its tide of care:
Your empty arms, I know, will reach to fold me
Oft in your dreams, and clasp but empty air.


I cannot see you now: fast fades the light —
Still hold my hand — now kiss me — so, good night.