The early poems of John Clare 1804-1822: General editor Eric Robinson: Edited by Eric Robinson and David Powell: Associate editor Margaret Grainger |
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 | The early poems of John Clare |  |
141
ON LABOUR
That nessesary tool of Wealth & pride—The humble ploughman in his daily rounds
Where natures beauties lavishly abounds
Will feel delighted when he turns his eye
To witness prospects of the earth or sky
& oft will make a pause & stand to see
The passing clouds the cottage brook or tree
—The king cup courts his eye with gayest p[r]ide
& modest cowslaps tremble by his side
& type of Innoscence without disguise
The Vilet creeps to meet his vulgar eyes
While on the sunny bank the daisys seem
With smiling charms to court the clowns esteem
Nor do they spread their smiling charms in vain
His bosom warms enrapturd at the sight
With secret pleasure & unknown delight
His swelling soul to memorys treasure flies
& strives to speak—but Ignorance denies
| The early poems of John Clare | |