Littell's Living Age/Volume 144/Issue 1864/Fallen Flowers

of the workers of the world Living toiled and toiling died; But others worked and the world went on, And was not changed when he was gone, A strong arm stricken, a wide sail furled; And only a few men sighed.

One of the heroes of the world Fought to conquer, then fought to fail, And fell down slain in his blood-stained mail, And over his form they stept; His cause was lost and his banner furled; And only a woman wept.

One of the singers among mankind Sang healing songs from an o'erwrought heart But ere men listened the grass and wind Were wasting the rest unsung like a wave; And now of his fame that will ne'er depart He has never heard in his grave.

One of the women who only love Loved and grieved and faded away: Ah me! are these gone to the God above, What more of each can I say? They are human flowers that flower and fall, This is the song and the end of them all.