THE REBEL'S HYMN
The seeds that swell within enwrapping mould,
Gray buds that color faintly in the northing sun.
Deep roots that lengthen after winter's rest.
The flutter of year's youth in April's breast
As young leaves in the warming hour unfold—
These and my heart are one!
Go dam the river-course with carted earth;
Or bind with iron bands that riven stone.
That century on century has slept
Until into its heart a tendril crept.
And in the quiet majesty of birth
New nature broke into her own!
Or bid the sun stand still! Or fashion wings
To herd the heaven's stars and make them be
Subservient to will and rule and whim!
Or rein the winds, and still the ocean's hymn!
More surely ye shall manage all these things
Than chain the Life in me!
Great mountains shedding the reluctant snow.
Vision of the finish of the thing begun,
Spirit of the beauty of the torrent's song.
Unconquerable peal of carillon.
And secrets that in conquest overflow—
These and my heart are one!
