by Whitman · Cluster: Self-Knowledge · Immortality · Self-Reliance

Abstract

His bare wintry songs may yet burst into future spring leaf and fruit, love and faith blooming like roses.

Connections

Topoi: Immortality Through Verse Motifs: Seasons, Spring, Leaves, Rose Themes & Concepts: Faith, Immortality of Art Fame Forms & Genres: Lyric

Testo integrale / Full text

Cluster: SANDS AT SEVENTY

Not meagre, latent boughs alone, O songs! (scaly and bare, like
eagles’ talons,)
But haply for some sunny day (who knows?) some future spring, some
summer—bursting forth,
To verdant leaves, or sheltering shade—to nourishing fruit,
Apples and grapes—the stalwart limbs of trees emerging—the fresh,
free, open air,
And love and faith, like scented roses blooming.