Singing the Living Tradition 85. Although this life is but a wraith

Singing the Living Tradition‎#85

Text:	Although This Life Is But a Wraith
Author:	Louis Untermeyer, 1885-1977
Tune:	DUNEDIN
Composer:	Vernon Griffiths, b. 1894

1 Although this life is but a wraith,
although we know not what we use,
although we grope with little faith,
give me the heart to fight and lose.

2 Open my ears to music, let
me thrill with spring’s first flutes and drums —
but never let me dare forget
the bitter ballads of the slums.

3 Ever insurgent let me be,
make me more daring than devout;
from sleek contentment keep me free,
and fill me with a buoyant doubt.

4 From compromise and things half-done,
keep me, with stern and stubborn pride;
and when, at last, the fight is won,
O, keep me still unsatisfied.

Text Information
First Line:	Although this life is but a wraith
Title:	Although This Life Is But a Wraith
Author:	Louis Untermeyer, 1885-1977
Meter:	L.M.
Language:	English
Publication Date:	1993
Topic:	Transcending Mystery and Wonder: Meditation and Mystical Songs; The City; Courage (4 more...)

Tune Information
Name:	DUNEDIN
Composer:	Vernon Griffiths, b. 1894
Meter:	L.M.
Key:	F Major or modal
Copyright:	Used with perm. of Faber Music, Ltd.