FIRST SOUL I was a peasant of the Polish plain; I left my plough because the message ran— Russia, in danger, needed every man To save her from the Teuton; and was slain. I gave my life for freedom—this I know: For those who bade me fight had told me so. SECOND SOUL I was a Tyrolese, a mountaineer: I gladly left my mountain home to fight Against the brutal, treacherous Muscovite; And died in Poland on a Cossack spear. I gave my life for freedom—this I know: For those who bade me fight had told me so. THIRD SOUL I worked in Lyons at my weaver's loom, When suddenly the Prussian despot hurled His felon blow at France and at the world; Then I went forth to Belgium and my doom. I gave my life for freedom—this I know: For those who bade me fight had told me so. FOURTH SOUL I owned a vineyard by the wooded Main, Until the Fatherland begirt by foes Lusting her downfall, called me, and I rose Swift to the call—and died in fair Lorraine. I gave my life for freedom—this I know: For those who bade me fight had told me so. FIFTH SOUL I worked in a great shipyard by the Clyde: There came a sudden word of wars declared, Of Belgium peaceful, helpless, unprepared, Asking our aid: I joined the ranks and died. I gave my life for freedom—this I know: For those who bade me fight had told me so. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...THE DIRTY OLD MAN by WILLIAM ALLINGHAM THE HILL WIFE: HOUSE FEAR by ROBERT FROST ON THE DEATH OF A FAIR INFANT DYING OF A COUGH by JOHN MILTON VIGNETTES OVERSEAS: 5. NIGHT SONG AT AMALFI by SARA TEASDALE LINES WRITTEN ... ONE WHO HAD WATCHED .. AMERICAN & FRENCH REVOLUTIONS by THOMAS LOVELL BEDDOES |