The Poetry Corner

Forward

By Bjrnstjerne Martinius Bjrnson

(See Note 37) "Forward! forward!" Rang our fathers' battle-cry. "Forward! forward!" Norsemen, be our watchword high! All that fires the spirit and makes the heart's faith bright, For that we forward go with might And faithful fight. "Forward! forward!" Whoso loves a home that's free. "Forward! forward!" Freedom's course must ever be. Though it shall be tested by doubt and by defeat, Who will the losses' count repeat When vict'ries greet? "Forward! forward!" Whoso trusts in Norway's day. "Forward! forward!" Whoso goes our fathers' way. Hid in Northern mountains are spirit-treasures true They shall, when dawns the morning's blue, Come forth anew.