VAGRANT VERSE
THE ORETI ANTHOLOGY. 165.—Tradition. (Written for the Southland Times.) What of Tradition if it cannot build A House of Glory in the Secret Heart, And find the dreams of mighty men fulfilled In this new day, and in our land apart ? It is a plaything of the paltry ones Who call themselves the masters of out race, It is a catchword for the heedless sons Of unknown sires who find, at last, disgrace. It is a hollow boast unbacked by deeds, The smirk of poorest men to splendid knights, That something which a snobbish outlook needs, But all divorced from freedom’s ancient rites. Let’s have self-honour to the uttermost, Nor beg our favours ' an English ghost! 166.—Classic Pride. Shakespeare is England’s lovey and hef guide, Milton, a thunder-voice to stir the weak, Wordsworth in lowly lines would magic seek, And Keats must walk with naiads at hie side. These are the stately names of classic pride That lift the nation to its highest peak, About them glows a dignity antique Which adds a sacred touch to fame worldwide. But they were voices in the wilderness, Finding harsh words for wanton slavery? Who faced dark powers in eagerness and stress, Voicing a paean of democracy! And for this spirit who shall love them less? Prophets of Beauty, Bards of liberty! —Southerner. .Invercargill, October 15.
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https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/ST19281016.2.31
Bibliographic details
Southland Times, Issue 20617, 16 October 1928, Page 6
Word Count
225VAGRANT VERSE Southland Times, Issue 20617, 16 October 1928, Page 6
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