Wild Geese

To-night with snow in the November air, Over the roof I heard that startling cry Passing along the highway of the dark— The Wild Geese going South. Confused commands As of a column on the march rang out Clamorous and sharp against the frosty air. And with an answering tumult in my heart I too went hurrying out into the night Was it from some deep immemorial past I learned those summoning signals and alarms, And still must answer to my brothers' call? I knew the darkling hope that bade them rise From Northern lakes, and with courageous hearts Adventure forth on their uncharted quest.