The Poetry Corner

Song for an Unwritten Play.

By Edward Shanks

The moon's a drowsy fool to-night, Wrapped in fleecy clouds and white; And all the while Endymion Sleeps on Latmos top alone. Not a single star is seen: They are gathered round their queen, Keeping vigil by her bed, Patient and unwearid. Now the poet drops his pen And moves about like other men: Tom o' Bedlam now is still And sleeps beneath the hawthorn'd hill. Only the Latmian shepherd deems Something missing from his dreams And tosses as he sleeps alone. Alas, alas, Endymion!