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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


SONG FOR THE NINETEENTH by THOMAS HOOD

Poet Analysis

First Line: THE MORNING SKY IS HUNG WITH MIST
Last Line: WHY SAY 'TWAS IN YOUR NINETEENTH YEAR.
Subject(s): MILITARY SERVICE, COMPULSORY; YOUTH; CONSCRIPTION; MILITARY DRAFT; SELECTIVE SERVICE;

THE morning sky is hung with mist,
The rolling drum the street alarms,
The host is paid, his daughter kiss'd,
So now to arms, so now to arms.

Our evening bowl was strong and stiff
And may we get such quarters oft,
I ne'er was better lodged, for if
The straw was hard, the maid was soft.

So now to arms, to arms, to arms,
And fare you well, my little dear,
And if they ask who won your charms,
Why say 'twas in your Nineteenth Year.



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