Shadow-Evidence

Swift o’er the sunny grass, I saw a shadow pass With subtle charm,— So quick, so full of life, With thrilling joy so rife, I started lest, unknown, My step—ere it was flown— Had done it harm. Why look up to the blue? The bird was gone, I knew, Far out of sight. Steady and keen of wing, The slight, impassioned thing, Intent on a goal unknown, Had held its course alone In silent flight. Dear little bird, and fleet, Flinging down at my feet Shadow for song: More sure am I of thee— Unseen, unheard by me— Than of some things felt and known, And guarded as my own, All my life long.

Collection: 
English
Mary Mapes Dodge

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