Classic Poem

Month of the warlike name and warring blast,
Welcome! since both belie thee. Thou dost bring
Sealed orders with thee from the gentle spring,
And, in thy noisy coming, we forecast
Her milder advent. Ay, we know thou hast
A loyal heart, despite the stormy ring
Of thy rude war-cry! Late, a bluebird's wing
Athwart thy clouded path unchallenged passed;
But yesterday, arbutus buds I spied,
Covered with snow for leaves,—sweet babes o' the wood!—
And noted, peeping up in bravest mood,
Green, growing things that would no longer hide:
And while thy shrillest winds piped overhead,
“Ah, spring is coming!” to myself I said.