English poem
Giovan Battista Niccolini
by Giosuè Carducci (1835–1907)
The time will come when the ancient mother, raising Her eyes upon the examples of the past, Shall see our land its lot with virtue cast, And virtuous souls virtue as friend appraising.
But now, from where the Alpine herds are grazing To far Sicilian shore, in slumber fast Like jealous nurse she lulls them to the last, Lest they should wake and on those forms be gazing.
What worth to thee our feeble note of praise, Only the people's lullaby to mar? To thee but shame, to us but harm befalling! O happy those who 'mid the din of war, On thee, a prophet worthy of better days, With Dante and Vittorio shall be calling!
JUVENILIA.