Go Away, Death!

Alfred Austin

1835 to 1913

Poem Image

Go away, Death!
You have come too soon. 
To sunshine and song I but just awaken, 
And the dew on my heart is undried and unshaken; 
Come back at noon.

Go away, Death!
What a short reprieve!
The mists of the morning have vanished, I roam 
Through a world bright with wonder, and feel it my home;
Come back at eve.

Go away, Death!
See, it still is light.
Over earth broods a quiet more blissful than glee. 
And the beauty of sadness lies low on the sea;
Come back at night.

Come to me, Death!
I no more would stay.
The night-owl hath silenced the linnet and lark, 
And the wailing of wisdom sounds sad in the dark;
Take me away.