Reely's Poetry Blog

by Gladys M. Allison

I used to love all nature so—
The river's sweep, the sunset's glow,
The fields and woods, the pure, fresh air—
The golden hours so free from care.
I wandered where'er fancy bade—
A gay and careless happy lad.

But Time Ambition's seed instilled;
I was with strong desire filled
To win great rank and wealth and power;
I filled with toil each fleeting hour;
And then, at last, I reached my goal,
But oh, alas, at what a toll!

Gone is my old and keen delight
In sunny day and star-lit night.
Alas, one impulse rules my brain—
The wish for greater power and gain.
And I am old, and gray and sad;
I sigh for that gay, careless lad,
Would gladly give my hoarded pelf
For golden youth—my better self.

Friends plead, "You're wealthy, honored, great—
Life lies before you—pleasures wait."
I only shake my head and say:
"I have forgotten how to play!"