Rondel
The ways of Death are soothing and serene,
And all the words of Death are grave and sweet.
From camp and church, the fireside and the street,
She signs to come, and strife and song have been.
A summer night descending, cool and green
And dark, on daytime’s dust and stress and heat,
The ways of Death are soothing and serene,
And all the words of Death are grave and sweet
O glad and sorrowful, with triumphant mien
And hopeful faces look upon and greet
This last of all your lovers, and to meet
Her kiss, the Comforter’s, your spirit lean....
The ways of Death are soothing and serene.
W. E. Henley.