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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


A LEAVING by THOMAS HARDY

Poet Analysis

First Line: KNOWING WHAT IT BORE / I WATCHED THE RAIN-SMITTEN BACK OF THE CAR
Last Line: KNOWING WHAT IT BORE!

KNOWING what it bore
I watched the rain-smitten back of the car --
(Brown-curtained, such as the old ones were) --
When it started forth for a journey afar
Into the sullen November air,
And passed the glistening laurels and round the bend.

I have seen many gayer vehicles turn that bend
In autumn, winter, and summer air,
Bearing for journeys near or afar
Many who now are not, but were,
But I don't forget that rain-smitten car,
Knowing what it bore!



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