Robert Graves-A Pinch of Salt
| A Pinch of Salt |
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A Pinch of Salt WHEN a dream is born in you With a sudden clamorous pain, When you know the dream is true And lovely, with no flaw nor stain, O then, be careful, or with sudden clutch 5 You\'ll hurt the delicate thing you prize so much. Dreams are like a bird that mocks, Flirting the feathers of his tail. When you seize at the salt-box, Over the hedge you\'ll see him sail. 10 Old birds are neither caught with salt nor chaff: They watch you from the apple bough and laugh. Poet, never chase the dream. Laugh yourself, and turn away. Mask your hunger; let it seem 15 Small matter if he come or stay; But when he nestles in your hand at last, Close up your fingers tight and hold him fast. |
