Because you live, though out of sight and reach, I will, so help me God, live bravely too, Taking the road with laughter and gay speech, Alert, intent to give life all its due. I will delight my soul with many things, The humours of the street and books and plays, Great rocks and waves winnowed by seagulls’ wings, Star-jewelled Winter nights, gold harvest days. I will for your sake praise what I have missed, The sweet content of long-united lives, The sunrise joy of lovers who have kissed, Children with flower-faces, happy wives. And last I will praise Death who gives anew Brave life adventurous and love—and you.
This poem is in the public domain.