WILD GEESE

 

To-night with snow in the November air,

Over the roof I heard that startling cry

Passing along the highway of the dark~

The Wild Geese going South.  Confused commands

As of a column on the march rang out

Clamorous and sharp against the frosty air.

And with an answering tumult in my heart

I too went hurrying out into the night

Was it from some deep immemorial past

I learned those summoning signals and alarms,

And still must answer to my brothers' call?

I knew the darkling hope that bade them rise

From Northern lakes, and with courageous hearts

Adventure forth on their unchartered quest.

 

~Bliss Carman (1861 - 1929) Canadian Poet Laureate/ SANCTUARY SUNSHINE HOUSE SONNETS McClelland & Stewart 1929