Mary Aldis

O PAIN, go from me for a little space!

Leave me to greet the sun-awakened day!

You have companioned me in every place—

Now, for an hour, I would go my way.

I would go forth with lifted eyes and heart

Hearing the blackbird’s cry, the lark’s delight.

The whole world sings—I must attune my part,

Send my voice ringing down the halls of night.

I have been patient with your dull dead clasp,

Have borne the horror of your fierce embrace;

I have not shrunk from your unceasing grasp

Nor from the lowering pallor of your face.

Now I am weary—I would go my way

One hour alone, to greet the new-born day!