Skip to content
1865–1939

A SONG

William Butler Yeats

I thought no more was needed Youth to prolong Than dumb-bell and foil To keep the body young.

Oh, who could have foretold That the heart grows old? Though I have many words, What woman's satisfied,

I am no longer faint Because at her side? Oh, who could have foretold That the heart grows old?

I have not lost desire But the heart that I had, I thought‘ twould burn my body Laid on the death-bed.

But who could have foretold That the heart grows old?

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.
A SONG · William Butler Yeats · Poetry Cove