The Captive Bird Ii Poem by robert dickerson

'On beyond view and poplar-lined
I want my life's path to gently wind
it's ending distant still;
the table is spread, the candles lit,
into my hands the cup is put-
shall I not drink my fill? '

'My life is at its Spring-I want my harvest time
and like the sun I long only to shine
on till my day is done:
Tall on my stem, the garden's pride
the dew on my petals scarcely dried,
I want my day in the sun.'

'Death pass by and take, oh please,
some bitter soul content to ease
its grief in your embrace and pass me by.
Pallas has pledged me leafy retreats; Love his
particular bliss; the muses pleasantries-
I do not want to die.'