POEM II
he many lips which laughed with lifeThe many kisses that they gave
Are set in grim and deadly strife,
Are cut like cold stone, in the brave.And lips that once have gaily sungAre sad and silent bars.And tears and blood from all are wrungWhen lips pledge lives to wars.
Yet from sweaty ranks and muddy banksBursts forth a captive cryAnd longing hearts at home give thanksThat voices cannot dieBut live through change and time and space,And through the centuriesFor a peaceful, just, fraternal raceUtter impassioned pleas.The many lips which laughed with lifeThe many kisses that they gave
Are set in grim and deadly strife,
Are cut like cold stone, in the brave.But quiet lips, with unknown names,Can make a mighty roarWhen every pair of them proclaims
The sin and shames of war!
