Page:Landon in Literary Gazette 1824.pdf/34

33 Literary Gazette, 27th March, 1824, Pages 203-204

THE FAREWELL. Yes, I am changed; yes, much much changed Since first I sang to thee; I marvel, knowing what I am, At what I once could be.

The trace of pleasure on my heart Was like that of the wind, And sorrow's self had not then left A deeper trace behind.

My song was like the bursting forth Of the first birds in spring; I had some thought of future flowers, But none of withering.

I thought of love, but of love as    Love never yet was known; Of truth, of hope, of happiness— But all these dreams are flown.

As sometimes on Italian shores At dawn of day is seen A fleeting show of fairy land, Just such my life has been.

How I now loathe my dreams of song! They have been so untrue; But more I loathe the dearer dream, The one that dwelt with you!

Farewell to one, farewell to all, Both song and love are o'er; The essence of their life is past, For they deceive no more!