The Poetry Corner

Stars

By John Frederick Freeman

The naked stars, deep beyond deep, Burn purely through the nervd night. Over the narrow sleep Of men tired of light; Deep within deep, as clouds behind Huge grey clouds hidden gleaming rise, Untroubled by sharp wind In cold desert skies. Cold deserts now with infinite host Of gathered spears at watch o'er small Armies of men lost In glooms funereal. O bitter light, all-threatening stars, O tired ghosts of men that sleep After stern mortal wars 'Neath skies chill and steep. These mortal hills, this flickering sea, This shadowy and thoughtful night, Throb with infinity, Burn with immortal light.