C. Fox Smith

C. Fox Smith was an English poet born in 1882 and died in 1954. Her poetry is known for its focus on maritime themes, sailors, and life at sea. Biography ↓More ↓

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C. Fox Smith

Traveller's Rest

When you are tired of the long road and the open sky, I wish it may be my door that you're passing by : I wish it may be my hearth where you will sit down And tell your tales of the land and sea and the strange far town. Oh, come you in from eastward or come you from the west, Here's good cheer to greet you and welcome of the best: Oh come you with your pockets full or come you home poor. Here's a place by the fireside and an open door. You'll tell me where you were since, and the things you've seen Up and down the wide world where so long you've been, — All the time that I've been here and you far away, — And then awhile be silent, as good friends may. And then awhile listen to the wind and rain,

Biography

C. Fox Smith was an English poet, born in 1882 and died in 1954. She wrote primarily about the sea, drawing on the traditions of maritime folk song and ballad. Her work often features sailors, ships, docks, and the daily realities of seafaring life. The poems are typically lyrical and formal, using rhythm and rhyme to evoke a sense of nostalgia and respect for the sea. During the early twentieth century, she gained a following among readers who appreciated nautical literature. In addition to poetry, she wrote fiction and children's books, but her reputation rests mainly on her verse. Her contributions to maritime poetry place her among the notable English poets of the sea in that period.

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