Poems (Denver)/The Bird of Song

by Mary Caroline Denver

THE BIRD OF SONG.

O'er life's dim and shadowy sea,
 I have heard men say,
Flies a sweet bird constantly,
 Singing all the way.
Come, bird of Hope, to me!
I will ope my heart to thee;
Come, and with thy melody
 Bid the waves be gay!

Eyes are coldly turned on me,
 That should beam in love;
And their haunting glance I see
 Wheresoe'er I move.
Come, sweet bird of Song, to me,
Come and sing unceasingly!
I will dream, in hearing thee,
 Of the eves above.

Bitter words are floating round
 On the troubled air,
Drowning with discordant sound
 All the music there.
Come, bird of Hope, to me,
I would fill my heart with thee,
And, 'mid so much melody,
 Leave no room for care.

Fast, my bark is bounding fast
 O'er the troubled deep,
Watchful eyes around it cast,
 Jealous vigils keep.
Come, sweet bird of Song, to me,
Or my heart will break for thee;
Come, and with thy melody
 Charm them all asleep!