Autumn Leaves

Behold that tree in autumn's dim decay,

Stripped by the frequent chill and eddying wind;

Where yet some yellow lonely leaves we find

Lingering and trembling on the naked spray,

Twenty, perchance, for millions whirled away!

Emblem--alas too just!--of human kind:

Vain man expects longevity, designed

For few indeed; and their protracted day--

What is it worth that wisdom does not scorn?

The blasts of sickness, care, and grief appal,

That laid the friends in dust, whose natal morn

Rose near their own!--and solemn is the call;

Yet, like those weak, deserted leaves forlorn,

Shivering they cling to life and fear to fall.