University of Virginia Library

Search this document 
The early poems of John Clare

1804-1822: General editor Eric Robinson: Edited by Eric Robinson and David Powell: Associate editor Margaret Grainger

expand sectionI. 
expand sectionII. 


423

NOON

The mid day hour of twelve the clock counts oer
A sultry stillness lulls the air asleep
The very buzz of flye is heard no more
Nor one faint wrinkle oer the waters creep
Like one large sheet of glass the pool does shine
Reflecting in its face the burnt sun beam
The very fish their sturting play decline
Seeking the willow shadows side the stream
& where the awthorn branches oer the pool
The little bird forsaking song & nest
Flutters on dripping twigs his limbs to cool
& splashes in the stream his burning breast
O free from thunder for a sudden shower
To cherish nature in this noon day hour