Poems (Hoffman)/Empty Nests
EMPTY NESTS
Rocked on many a bending boughEmpty nests are swaying now In the Autumn wind,Hanging o'er the cool cascade,Hidden in the hazel shade,Nests that loving skill has made Soon to leave behind.
From the leafy twigs aroundOnce was borne the joyous sound Of the wild bird's voice,Pouring out his little soulIn melodious notes that rollMerrily from knoll to knoll Bidding all rejoice.
Long ago the birds have flownAnd the little nests alone, Rocking to and fro,Time a silent mournful strainWhile the wandering winds complainAnd the leaves their sad refrain Whisper faint and low.
And I think of one lone nestWhere a birdling used to rest In the joyous Spring,Now when Autumn decks the landsRocked no more by loving handsLo, an empty cradle stands Where they used to sing.