Distant Voices

I left my home for travelling; Because I heard the strange birds sing In foreign skies, and felt their wing

Brush past my soul impatiently; I saw the bloom on flower and tree That only grows beyond the sea.

Methought the distant voices spake More wisdom than near tongues can make; I followed--lest my heart should break.

And what is past is past and done. I dreamt, and here the dream begun: I saw a salmon in the sun

Leap from the river to the shore-- Ah! strange mishap, so wounded sore, To his sweet stream to turn no more.

A bird from 'neath his mother's breast, Spread his weak wings in vain request; Never again to reach his nest.

I saw a blossom bloom too soon Upon a summer's afternoon; 'Twill breathe no more beneath the moon.

I woke, warmed 'neath a foreign sky Where locust blossoms bud and die, Strange birds called to me flashing by.

And dusky faces passed and woke The echoes with the words they spoke-- --The same old tales as other folk.

A truce to roaming! Never more I'll leave the home I loved of yore. But strangers meet me at the door.

* * * * *

I left my home still travelling, For yet I hear the strange birds sing, And foreign flowers rare perfumes bring.

I hear a distant voice, more wise Than others are 'neath foreign skies. I'll find--perhaps in paradise.