Part 1 — THE BREAKING
Reading edition
The Lord God Speaks To A Youth
Bend now thy body to the common weight: (But oh, that vine-clad head, those limbs of morn! Those proud young shoulders, I myself made straight! How shall ye wear the yoke that must be worn?)
Look thou, my son, what wisdom comes to thee: (But oh, that singing mouth, those radiant eyes! Those dancing feet—that I myself made free! How shall I sadden them to make them wise?)
Nay, then, thou shalt! Resist not—have a care! (Yea, I must work my plans who sovereign sit; Yet do not tremble so! I cannot bear— Though I am God—to see thee so submit!)
Margaret Steele Anderson [1869-1921]