Classic Poem

I.

I look upon the changing leaves,
Their lights and shades I view,
As every lessening bough receives
A sweetly-varied hue:
My heart, ev'n while admiring, grieves,
And turns from them to YOU !

II.

Unto those leaves I liken thee,
For thou, like them, canst boast —
Yet in more bountiful degree,
Of charms a varying host,
So sweet and changeable, that we
Doubt which to value most.

III.

As gentle hopes that lure us on,
Shine brightest ere they fleet,
Soon shall those leafy lights be gone
That now I love to greet;
And what I fondly gaze upon
Shall rustle to my feet.

IV.

Yes, thus our being's witcheries
Enchant us, and then flee;
But thou to whom I likened these,
Not thus thy charms shall be;
They shall but feel the summer breeze, —
No winter shall they see!