85. Although This Life Is But a Wraith

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.



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