Skip to content
1859–1936

XVII

Alfred Edward Housman

Twice a week the winter thorough Here stood I to keep the goal: Football then was fighting sorrow For the young man's soul.

Now in May time to the wicket Out I march with bat and pad: See the son of grief at cricket Trying to be glad.

Try I will; no harm in trying: Wonder‘ tis how little mirth Keeps the bones of man from lying On the bed of earth.

Cookies on Poetry Cove

We use cookies to remember your language preference and — only with your consent — to learn how Poetry Cove is used. You can change your mind any time.
XVII · Alfred Edward Housman · Poetry Cove