A still, serene, soft day; enough of sun To wreathe the cottage smoke like pine-tree snow, Whiter than those white flowers the bride-maids wore; Upon the silent boughs the lissom air Rested; and, only when it went, they moved, Nor more than under linnet springing off. Such was the wedding morn: the joyous Year Lept over March and April up to May. Regent of rising and of ebbing hearts, Thyself borne on in cool serenity, All heaven around and bending over thee, All earth below and watchful of thy course! Well hast thou chosen, after long demur To aspirations from more realms than one. Peace be with those thou leavest! peace with thee! Is that enough to wish thee? not enough, But very much: for Love himself feels pain, While brighter plumage shoots, to shed last year's; And one at home (how dear that one!) recalls Thy name, and thou recallest one at home. Yet turn not back thine eyes; the hour of tears Is over; nor believe thou that Romance Closes against pure Faith her rich domain. Shall only blossoms flourish there? Arise, Far-sighted bride! look forward! clearer views And higher hopes lie under calmer skies. Fortune in vain call'd out to thee; in vain Rays from high regions darted; Wit pour'd out His sparkling treasures; Wisdom laid his crown Of richer jewels at thy reckless feet. Well hast thou chosen. I repeat the words, Adding as true ones, not untold before, That incense must have fire for its ascent, Else 'tis inert and can not reach the idol. Youth is the sole equivalent of youth. Enjoy it while it lasts; and last it will; Love can prolong it in despite of Years. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...THE BRIDGE by HENRY WADSWORTH LONGFELLOW KEATS (1) by LIZETTE WOODWORTH REESE THE HOUSE OF LIFE: 79. THE MONOCHORD by DANTE GABRIEL ROSSETTI EYE-WITNESS by FREDERICK RIDGELY TORRENCE DICING by AGATHIAS SCHOLASTICUS AFTER THE PLAY by HAMILTON FISH ARMSTRONG SONNETS OF MANHOOD: 9. WHEN by GEORGE BARLOW (1847-1913) |