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Monday, November 21, 2005

Remembrance

I meant to post this poem for Remembrance Day but I was so busy around that time that I didn't get to it. It's Stephen Spender's "I Think Continually of Those Who Were Truly Great". The title is a poem in itself and good advice for us Orthodox re the saints. . .

Near the snow, near the sun, in the highest fields,
See how these names are feted by the waving grass
And by the streamers of white cloud
And whispers of wind in the listening sky.
The names of those who in their lives fought for life,
Who wore at their hearts the fire's center.
Born of the sun, they travelled a short while toward the sun
And left the vivid air signed with their honour.

(1936)

3 comments:

thomasw said...

that is a splendid poem. and i had never read any of his works prior to you posting this.

i agree we should always bear witness to the honourable and glorious dead by raising a cup to their memory.

again, a fine and suitable poem.

Kassianni said...

i really like this poem.

Matthew Francis said...

'the listening sky'... beautiful.