Schoolgirls Hastening

John Shaw Neilson

 Next Poem          

Fear it has faded and the night:
The bells all peal the hour of nine:
The schoolgirls hastening through the light
Touch the unknowable Divine.

What leavening in my heart would bide!
Full dreams a thousand deep are there:
All luminants succumb beside
The unbound melody of hair.

Joy the long timorous takes the flute:
Valiant with colour songs are born:
Love the impatient absolute
Lives as a Saviour in the morn

Get thou behind me Shadow-Death!
Oh ye Eternities delay!
Morning is with me and the breath
Of schoolgirls hastening down the way.

Next Poem 

 Back to John Shaw Neilson
Get a free collection of Classic Poetry ↓

Receive the ebook in seconds 50 poems from 50 different authors


To be able to leave a comment here you must be registered. Log in or Sign up.

Comments2
  • phani

    Just came across a really lovely poem that really captures the beauty and innocence of schoolgirls. Can anyone explain what's meant by "Love the impatient absolute / Lives as a Saviour in the morn"? Felt really touched by the whole thing, especially the ending with them hastening down the way.

    • RashadBzyltkrlmn

      I remember reading Schoolgirls Hastening when I was younger. The innocence and beauty that it captures is so touching. It has this unique way of presenting childhood and school life that is both nostalgic and mystical. It's sweet and melancholic at the same time. This poem always manages to bring a smile to my face.