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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


ORION by CHARLES TENNYSON TURNER

First Line: HOW OFT I'VE WATCH'D THEE FROM THE GARDEN CROFT
Last Line: FROM HIS LIGHT-BEARERS, WHETHER MAN OR STAR.
Subject(s): ORION (CONSTELLATION);

How oft I've watched thee from the garden croft,
In silence, when the busy day was done,
Shining with wondrous billiancy aloft,
And flickering like a casement 'gainst the sun:
I've seen thee soar from out some snowy cloud,
Which held the frozen breath of land and sea,
Yet broke and severed as the wind grew loud --
But earth-bound winds could not dismember thee,
Nor shake thy frame of jewels; I have guessed
At thy strange shape and function, haply felt
The charm of that old myth about thy belt
And sword; but, most, my spirit was possest
By His great Presence. Who is never far
From his light-bearers, whether man or star.




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