The Closed Door

"Look in thine heart and write." Oh, what is in mine? Ashes of roses long sere, And dregs of life’s wine; Passionate loves, all dead, And friendships that fade; How can I look and turn From these, unafraid?

Ghosts of past deeds are there, Some armed with a sting; If I unbar the door, Then, out they will spring! Echoes of songs begun— Of mirth, merging with tears, Float through that hidden room Of long vanished years.

Dreams, unfulfilled, will lift Sad faces to me, If I unbar the door And set them all free. Closed be the door of my heart, Where memories grope; Wide to new visions I fling The windows of hope!