Poems (Cromwell)/Laughter
For works with similar titles, see Laughter.
LAUGHTER
Throughout his life men seldom spoke with him; They stood aloof. But he could overhear Their laughter hooting far away and near, With scornful intonations. It could dim Things lovely and beloved. Upon the rim Of his most hallowed griefs it could appear To mock with mirth and with unheeding cheer. He was afraid of laughter. Ah, how prim, How foolish, it could make his prayers! He durst Not improvise a loving God. In cloak Of tenderness could laughter lash his soul: Until at last, with savage glee, it broke From his own trammelled breast. He felt it roll And surge to his own lips and quench his thirst.