Classic Poem

Scene of disunion, bickering, and strife,
What curse has made thy native blessings die?
Why do these broils embitter daily life,
And cold self-interest form the strongest tie?
Hate, ill conceal'd, is flashing from the eye,
And mutter'd vengeance curls the pallid lip;
What should be harmony is all at jar; —
Doubt and reserve love's timid blossoms nip,
And weaken nature's bonds to ropes of sand;
While evil indifference takes the icy hand
(O, chilling touch!) of constrained fellowship:
What secret demon has such discord fann'd?
What ill committed stirs this penal war —
Or what omitted good? — Alas! that such things are.