Skip to content
1882–1950

THE HORSE

James Stephens

A sparrow hopped about the street, And he was not a bit afraid; He flew between a horse's feet, And ate his supper undismayed:

I think myself the horse knew well The bird came for the grains that fell. For his eye was looking down, And he danced the corn about

In his nose-bag, till the brown Grains of corn were tumbled out; And I fancy that he said, “Eat it up, young Speckle-Head!”

The driver then came back again, He climbed into the heavy dray; And he tightened up the rein, Cracked his whip and drove away.

But when the horse's ribs were hit, The sparrow did not care a bit.

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.
THE HORSE · James Stephens · Poetry Cove