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1892–1950

PASTORAL

Edna St. Vincent Millay

If it were only still!— With far away the shrill Crying of a cock; Or the shaken bell

From a cow's throat Moving through the bushes; Or the soft shock Of wizened apples falling

From an old tree In a forgotten orchard Upon the hilly rock! Oh, grey hill,

Where the grazing herd Licks the purple blossom, Crops the spiky weed! Oh, stony pasture,

Where the tall mullein Stands up so sturdy On its little seed!

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PASTORAL · Edna St. Vincent Millay · Poetry Cove