Mountains

Over the green and level land My sad eyes wander without hope ; Here no rejoicing mountains stand, No strong and friendly slope.

But ever when I close my eyes Tall mountains rear their stately forms. Against the sky I watch them rise, Serene in calm or storms.

One in the distance rises blue, Haloed by morning's earliest beams. This was the peak my childhood knew. About her clung my dreams.

Over her pallor fell the snow, The hot sun scorched her fertile breast. But in the summer lightning's glow I always loved her best.

She bowed her purple head in pain As clouds rolled up from threatening space, And let a veil of silver rain Slip down across her weeping face.