Illinois Verse/Within the Auditorium

by Anna Shattuck Palmer

Within the Auditorium

In the foyer sways the human mass
Thru the doors into the great rotunda.
Up the winding stairs the people pass,
To the balcony seats ascending.
East of the central doors a portrait we see,
President James in gown and crimson hood.
West, a beautiful bronze of memory,—
Ruth among the alien sheaves, low bending.

Crescent shaped the rows of seats extend
Within. Above, the great dome sparkles with lights
On the stage green folds of velvet lend
Drooping softness to the long, harsh lines.
Dominating the space above, Ulysses
Watches Penelope's maidens spin. The title,
"Everybody Works. But Father," his ease
Has won from the gay, irreverent students.

On that stage have spoken men who led.
Prima donnas have sung and orchestras played.
Final rites for our celebrated dead
Here were performed. Athletic meetings held,
Student carnivals each year without fail;
Concerts by the Band and Choral Society.
While above Ulysses with the years grows pale,
—Painted by Millet, lost with the Titanic at sea.

Gathering place for enlightened college life.
How many different groups your walls enfold
In the college year. Within that broad expanse
All-University services they monthly hold;
Sunday vesper concerts with organ music,
Sweeping arches and dome, the students lure,—
Beauty seeking. Fine old Auditorium.
Temple of knowledge, pleasure, peace and culture.