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1859–1936

XVI. SPRING MORNING

Alfred Edward Housman

Star and coronal and bell April underfoot renews, And the hope of man as well Flowers among the morning dews.

Now the old come out to look, Winter past and winter's pains. How the sky in pool and brook Glitters on the grassy plains.

Easily the gentle air Wafts the turning season on; Things to comfort them are there, Though‘ tis true the best are gone.

Now the scorned unlucky lad Rousing from his pillow gnawn Mans his heart and deep and glad Drinks the valiant air of dawn.

Half the night he longed to die, Now are sown on hill and plain Pleasures worth his while to try Ere he longs to die again.

Blue the sky from east to west Arches, and the world is wide, Though the girl he loves the best Rouses from another's side.

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