The tide of things should flow less troubled, sure; To clear its current sages do impart Their wisdom, and the poet's pitying heart Pours in its crystal tribute, bright and pure; But still doth War present a mighty lure To many minds; a charm which lulls to rest Compunctious thought, and mails the obdurate breast With triple-plated iron, to endure The shock of children's cries and woman's tears, Untouch'd, unsoften'd, and without a sigh; O Glory without Honour! Helms and spears School to a ruthless calm the warrior's eye; 'Carnage' he means, when he cries 'Victory', And barren battle hath his hopes and fears! | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...ODES III, 29 by QUINTUS HORATIUS FLACCUS THE LAW OF THE YUKON by ROBERT WILLIAM SERVICE EXTEMPORE EFFUSION UPON THE DEATH OF JAMES HOGG by WILLIAM WORDSWORTH SERENADE by JEAN FRANCOIS VICTOR AICARD TO HIS INGENIOUS FRIEND, MR. N. TATE by PHILIP AYRES SLOW TO COME, QUICK A-GONE by WILLIAM BARNES |