Poetry Explorer

Classic and Contemporary Poetry

NOT ONLY by WALTER JOHN DE LA MARE

Poet Analysis

First Line: NOT ONLY RUINS THEIR LICHEN HAVE
Last Line: DENIED ITS PASSING HOUR.
Subject(s): TIME;
Not only ruins their lichen have;
Nor tombs alone, their moss.
Implacable Time, in markless grave,
Turns what seemed gold to dross.

Yet -- a mere ribbon for the hair,
A broken toy, a faded flower
A passionate deathless grace may wear,
Denied its passing hour.


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