Classic Poem

I.

What was thy life? a pearl cast up awhile
Upon the bank and shoal of Time; — again,
Even as did the gazers' eyes beguile,
To be drawn backward by the hungry main.

II.

What was thy life? a fountain of sweet wave,
Which to the salt sea's margin all too near
Rose sparkling, and a few steps searcely gave,
Ere that distained its waters fresh and clear.

III.

What was thy life? a flowering almond-tree,
Which all too soon its blossoms did unfold;
And so must see their lustre presently
Dimmed, and their beauty nipped by envious cold.

IV.

What was thy life? a bright and beauteous flame,
Wherein, a season, light and joy we found;
But a swift sound of rushing tempest came,
It past — and sparkless ashes strewed the ground!

V.

What was thy life? a bird in infant's hand
Held with too slight a grasp, and which, before
He knows or fears, its pinions doth expand,
And with a sudden impulse heavenward soar.