WAR POEMS “WE MUST MAKE THE WORLD SAFE FOR DEMOCRACY.” 1917.
Reading edition
OUT on the prairies; Where rivers flow; On crests of mountains The stern words glow. “War,” say the rocks. The rails ring, “War.” From smoking chimneys The solemn clouds pour. War in the khaki, War in the lace; On youthful forehead And stern old face. “War!” smiles the lips, Though the heart sobs “War.” A Nation’s eyes flash Like keen scimitar. On all the houses The flags are like fires. East, West, arouses, West, East inspires. Light fills the banners Light tips the poles, The thrilled Stars and Stripes Slowly unrolls. Doom of the nations, Doom of the brave. Now it breaks o’er us, War’s bitter wave; But we shall hold us Face toward the light.... We have enrolled us Now for the fight!