Anna Wickham
Reading edition
Anna Wickham, one of the most individual of the younger women-poets, has published two distinctive volumes, The Contemplative Quarry (1915) and The Man with a Hammer (1916).
THE SINGER
If I had peace to sit and sing, Then I could make a lovely thing; But I am stung with goads and whips, So I build songs like iron ships. Let it be something for my song, If it is sometimes swift and strong.
REALITY
Only a starveling singer seeks The stuff of songs among the Greeks. Juno is old, Jove's loves are cold; Tales over-told. By a new risen Attic stream A mortal singer dreamed a dream. Fixed he not Fancy's habitation, Nor set in bonds Imagination. There are new waters, and a new Humanity. For all old myths give us the dream to be. We are outwearied with Persephone; Rather than her, we'll sing Reality.
SONG
I was so chill, and overworn, and sad, To be a lady was the only joy I had. I walked the street as silent as a mouse, Buying fine clothes, and fittings for the house. But since I saw my love I wear a simple dress, And happily I move Forgetting weariness.