Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). A Victorian Anthology, 1837–1895. 1895.

William Sharp 1855–1905

From “Sospiri Di Roma.” II. Red Poppies

Sharp-Wi

THROUGH the seeding grass,

And the tall corn,

The wind goes:

With nimble feet,

And blithe voice,

Calling, calling,

The wind goes

Through the seeding grass,

And the tall corn.

What calleth the wind,

Passing by—

The shepherd-wind?

Far and near

He laugheth low,

And the red poppies

Lift their heads

And toss i’ the sun.

A thousand thousand blooms

Tossed i’ the air,

Banners of joy,

For ’t is the shepherd-wind

Passing by,

Singing and laughing low

Through the seeding grass

And the tall corn.