William Wordsworth: Adress to the sons of Burns

W i l l i a m   W o r d s w o r t h

(1770-1850)

 

ADDRESS TO THE SONS OF BURNS

after visiting their Father’s Grave (August 14th, 1803.)

Ye now are panting up life’s hill!

‘Tis twilight time of good and ill,

And more than common strength and skill

Must ye display

If ye would give the better will

Its lawful sway.

 

Strong bodied if ye be to bear

Intemperance with less harm, beware!

But if your Father’s wit ye share,

Then, then indeed,

Ye Sons of Burns! for watchful care

There will be need.

 

For honest men delight will take

To shew you favor for his sake,

Will flatter you; and Fool and Rake

Your steps pursue:

And of your Father’s name will make

A snare for you.

 

Let no mean hope your souls enslave;

Be independent, generous, brave!

Your Father such example gave,

And such revere!

But be admonish’d by his Grave,

And think, and fear!

William Wordsworth poetry

kempis poetry magazine

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