Page:Leaves of Grass (1860).djvu/237

Rh

night I am happy; As I walk the beach where the old mother sways to
 * and fro, singing her savage and husky song,

As I watch the stars shining—I think a thought of
 * the clef of the universes, and of the future.

What can the future bring me more than I have? Do you suppose I wish to enjoy life in other spheres?

I say distinctly I comprehend no better sphere than
 * this earth,

I comprehend no better life than the life of my body.

I do not know what follows the death of my body, But I know well that whatever it is, it is best for me, And I know well that whatever is really Me shall live
 * just as much as before.

I am not uneasy but I shall have good housing to
 * myself,

But this is my first—how can I like the rest any
 * better?

Here I grew up—the studs and rafters are grown
 * parts of me.

I am not uneasy but I am to be beloved by young and
 * old men, and to love them the same,

20