87. Sung on a By-way. Russell, George William ("A. E."). 1913. Collected Poems by A.E.

George William (“A. E.”) Russell (1867–1935). Collected Poems by A.E. 1913.

87. Sung on a By-way


WHAT of all the will to do?
It has vanished long ago,
For a dream-shaft pierced it through
From the Unknown Archer’s bow.

What of all the soul to think?	5
Some one offered it a cup
Filled with a diviner drink,
And the flame has burned it up.

What of all the hope to climb?
Only in the self we grope	10
To the misty end of time:
Truth has put an end to hope.

What of all the heart to love?
Sadder than for will or soul,
No light lured it on above;	15
Love has found itself the whole.