Murmurs in the gloom by Thomas Hardy
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Murmurs in the gloom by Thomas Hardy

Performed by
Thomas Hardy

Murmurs in the gloom Annotated

I wayfared at the nadir of the sun
Where populations meet, though seen of none;
&nbsp And millions seemed to sigh around
&nbsp As though their haunts were nigh around,
&nbsp And unknown throngs to cry around
&nbsp       &nbsp Of things late done.

“O Seers, who well might high ensample show”
(Came throbbing past in plainsong small and slow),
&nbsp “Leaders who lead us aimlessly,
&nbsp Teachers who train us shamelessly,
&nbsp Why let ye smoulder flamelessly
&nbsp       &nbsp The truths ye trow?

“Ye scribes, that urge the old medicament,
Whose fusty vials have long dried impotent,
&nbsp Why prop ye meretricious things,
&nbsp Denounce the sane as vicious things,
&nbsp And call outworn factitious things
&nbsp       &nbsp Expedient?

“O Dynasties that sway and shake us so,
Why rank your magnanimities so low
&nbsp       &nbsp That grace can smooth no waters yet,
But breathing threats and slaughters yet
&nbsp Ye grieve Earth’s sons and daughters yet
&nbsp       &nbsp As long ago?

“Live there no heedful ones of searching sight,
Whose accents might be oracles that smite
&nbsp To hinder those who frowardly
&nbsp Conduct us, and untowardly;
&nbsp To lead the nations vawardly
&nbsp       &nbsp From gloom to light?”

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