FADING LEAF  and  FALLEN LEAF

By
Richard Garnett
1835 - 1906

&/\&/\&
 

Said Fading-Leaf to Fallen-Leaf ---

I toss alone on a forsaken tree,

It rocks and cracks with every gust that rocks

Its straining bulk:  say !    how is it with thee?
 

Said Fallen-Leaf to Fading-Leaf ---

A heavy foot went by, an hour ago:

Crush'd into clay, I stain the way;

The loud Wind calls me, and I can not go.
 

Said Fading-Leaf to Fallen-Leaf ---

Death lessons Life, a ghost is ever wise:

Teach me a way to live till May

Laughs fair with fragrant lips and loving eyes !
 

Said Fallen-Leaf to Fading-Leaf ---

Hast loved fair eyes and lips of gentle breath?

Fade then, and fall !    thou hast had all

That Life can give;  ask somewhat now of Death !
 

&/\&/\&