Classic Poem

I would not shine as a star
That glows for a while
In a drop of dew—
And fades like a smile.

I would not shine as the moon
Peeping down
Like an armyless king
On an enemy's town;

And seeing below
A world that sleeps
Hides in a cloud
And sighs and weeps:

I would shine as the sun—
Shadows to drive,
Laughter to wake,
Earth to revive.

A triumphant king,
Though perishing soon—
Not as a star,
Not as a moon.