Written in Cold

Written in Cold

Original Text

Persephone in Winter (London: Hurst and Blackett, 1937). p. 22.

1When I am weighted down with fame
2And wealthy past desire,
3I shall spend every copper on
4Pine-sticks for a fire.
7And flames beneath a sky of sparks
8Shall dance for me o' nights.
9Slim flames in sapphire,
11But a still flame in scarlet,
12She shall be my Queen.
13I shall be their mad master ...
14Shriller, fiercer than words
16Shall cry my burning birds.

Notes

5] jongleurs: wandering minstrels, poets or entertainers in medieval England or France. Back to Line
6] wights: spirits, ghosts or other supernatural being. Back to Line
10] waspish: readily expressing anger or irritation. Back to Line
15] aviary: a large cage, building or enclosure for birds. Back to Line
Publication Start Year
1935
Publication Notes

New Zealand Best Poems of 1935, ed. Charles A. Marris (Wellington: Harry H. Tombs, 1935): 10.

RPO poem Editors
Cameron La Follette
RPO Edition
2013
Rhyme