Not that I always struck the proper mean

Alan Seeger

1888 to 1916

Poem Image

We are working on musical arrangements of Not that I always struck the proper mean by Alan Seeger and they will be published on a date yet to be decided.

Not that I always struck the proper mean
Of what mankind must give for what they gain,
But, when I think of those whom dull routine
And the pursuit of cheerless toil enchain,
Who from their desk-chairs seeing a summer cloud
Race through blue heaven on its joyful course
Sigh sometimes for a life less cramped and bowed,
I think I might have done a great deal worse;
For I have ever gone untied and free,
The stars and my high thoughts for company;
Wet with the salt-spray and the mountain showers,
I have had the sense of space and amplitude,
And love in many places, silver-shoed,
Has come and scattered all my path with flowers.

Share this poem:

Alan Seeger's Not that I always struck the proper mean

We are busy working to bring Alan Seeger's "Not that I always struck the proper mean" to life through our unique musical arrangements and will have a full analysis of the poem here for you soon.

At V2Melody, each arrangement is crafted with care through a thoughtful partnership of human artistry and technological innovation. This process involves:

  • Deep analysis of the poem's rhythm, structure, and emotional essence
  • Careful selection of musical styles that enhance the poem's unique voice
  • Balancing traditional poetic expression with contemporary sound landscapes
  • Multiple revisions to ensure the arrangement honors the poet's original vision

This creative journey takes time—each composition represents hours of dedicated work to create something that deepens our connection to Alan Seeger's words in meaningful ways.

While you wait for our complete interpretation, we invite you to explore other musical arrangements in our gallery or learn more about Alan Seeger's life and contributions to literature.

Check back soon to experience how "Not that I always struck the proper mean" transforms when verse meets melody—a unique journey that makes poetry accessible, engaging, and profoundly moving in new ways.