Poetry Explorer

Classic and Contemporary Poetry

A LOOK by JOHN COWPER POWYS

First Line: I WOULD NOT STOP YOU ON YOUR WAY
Last Line: WILL REDEEM EVERY SACRIFICE.
Subject(s): EYES; FLUTES; FOREHEADS; PITY;
I would not stop you on your way;
I would not bind your feet;
Or on your shining forehead lay
One shadow of defeat.
Go forward -- if you turn, the crowd
Might trample you with me.
Let the flute-players play more loud
And the dancers dance more free!
But once before the palace gate
Rolls back and I'm bereft --
Turn and look on me; and if fate
Has any pity left,
A passing mist upon your eyes
Will redeem every sacrifice.



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