Jump to content

Words for the Chisel (collection)/Song for Unbound Hair

From Wikisource
4363105Words for the Chisel — Song for Unbound HairGenevieve Taggard
Song for Unbound Hair
Oh, never marry Ishmael!Marry another and prosper well;But not, but never Ishmael . . .
What has he ever to buy or sell?He only owns what his strength can keep,Only a vanishing knot of sheep,A goat or two. Does he sow or reap?In the hanging rocks rings his old ram's bell—Who would marry Ishmael!
What has he to give to a bride?Only trouble, little beside,Only his arm like a little caveTo cover a woman and keep her safe;A rough fierce kiss, and the wind and the rain,A child, perhaps, and another again—Who would marry Ishmael?
The arrogant Lucifer when he fellBequeathed his wrath to Ishmael;The hand of every man is setAgainst this lad, and this lad's handIs cruel and quick,—forget, forgetThe nomad boy on his leagues of sand. . . .
Marry another and prosper well,But not, but never Ishmael.