Classic Poem

RUSSIA .

Hero of iron, cast in a giant's mould,
Thy brow was formed for crowns, thy hands to sway,
From Finland to the Caspian's waves, and weigh
The destinies of nations young and bold.

Knight, warrior, statesman, genius uncontrolled,
Profound in council, reckless in the fray,
Thy soul prophetic doubted not the day
When thy trained legions toward Pultava rolled.

And when I ponder on thy mighty deeds,
Majestic visions float before mine eyes,
Of dismal, blood-stained steppes and burning homes,
Swedish hussars falling from maddened steeds,
And all the clash of steel 'mid conquering cries
Beneath great Kremlins and Byzantine domes!