Victor Starbuck (Poetry)

One asked a sign from God; and day by day 

The sun arose in pearl, in scarlet set,

Each night the stars appeared in bright array,

Each morn the thirsting grass with dew was wet.

The corn failed not its harvest, nor the vine.

And yet he saw no sign.

One longed to hear a prophet; and he strayed

Through crowded streets, and by the open sea.

He saw men send their ships for distant trade,

And build for generations yet to be.

He saw the farmer sow his acres wide,

But went unsatisfied.

  

One prayed a sight of heaven; and erewhile 

He saw a workman at his noontime rest.

He saw one dare for honor, and the smile

Of one who held a babe upon her breast;

At dusk two lovers walking hand in hand;

BuT did not understand.

Victor Starbuck, 1887-1935