Poetry Explorer

Classic and Contemporary Poetry

HOW SLEEP THE BRAVE, by                 Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography
First Line: Nay, nay, sweet england, do not grieve
Last Line: Only thy joy could share.
Alternate Author Name(s): Ramal, Walter; De La Mare, Walter
Subject(s): Death; World War I - Casualties; Dead, The


NAY, nay, sweet England, do not grieve!
Not one of these poor men who died
But did within his soul believe
That death for thee was glorified.

Ever they watched it hovering near
That mystery 'yond thought to plumb,
Perchance sometimes in loathèd fear
They heard cold Danger whisper, Come!—

Heard and obeyed. O, if thou weep
Such courage and honour, beauty, care,
Be it for joy that those who sleep
Only thy joy could share.





Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!


Other Poems of Interest...



Home: PoetryExplorer.net