Poems (Sharpless)/E'en at Joy's Feast
E'EN AT JOY'S FEAST
E'en at joy's feast was my soul sad and lone!Hollow the laughter; and an undertoneSwept off the mirth into a dreary moan, E'en at joy's feast.The tender blossoms faded out so soon!Some discord jarred thro' every sweetest tune Ere it had ceased.
Sighing, I turned me from the careless throng,And wandering woful the wild wastes amongOne stayed me with a gentle grasp, but strong:— "Be thou my guest!"She broke the bread of life to me, and pouredThe wine of sorrow;—at her frugal board First found I rest.
She wore no garlands,—no blithe song she raised,And while I bided, peaceful yet amazed,I found one with her whom all hearts have praised. I followed DutyAnd found a household guest beside her hearth,Sweet-eyed Content, who fills with joy the earth, And life with beauty.