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The Swifts(1916)

Edward Thomas

How at once should I know
MeterHow at once should I know
When stretched in the harvest blue
MeterWhen stretched in the harvest blue
I saw the swift’s black bow,
MeterI saw the swift’s black bow,
That I would not have that view
MeterThat I would not have that view
Another day
MeterAnother day
Until next May
MeterUntil next May
Again it is due?
MeterAgain it is due?

The same year after year–
MeterThe same year after year–
But with the swift alone.
MeterBut with the swift alone.
With other things I but fear
MeterWith other things I but fear
That they will be over and done
MeterThat they will be over and done
Suddenly
MeterSuddenly
And I only see
MeterAnd I only see
Them to know them gone.
MeterThem to know them gone.

Rhyme
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