War-Sacrifice

On a rock-altar stern In sacrificial fires, A man goes up to burn His memories and desires.

Sweet savors of the earth, All innocence and ease, All pleasantness and mirth, He offers on his knees.

His trembling, star-white dreams; His body’s secret fear; His life--how dear it seems, How knit with lives more dear!

Last offering, and most dread-- With blind arms thrust above His bowed and suffering head, He burns his brother-love:

Yet from that altar springs, Magnificently bright, A Love with fiery wings To fill the world with light.