Who says that we shall pass, or the fame of us fade and die

Quote byWilliam Ernest Henley · 1849–1903

Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: Poems (1898), "Rhymes and Rhythms", II. "To R. F. B.".

English (original)

Who says that we shall pass, or the fame of us fade and die, While the living stars fulfil their round in the living sky?

— William Ernest Henley

From the winter's gray despair, From the summer’s golden languor, Death, the lover of Life, Frees us for ever.

Hark how the Trumpet, The mistress of mistresses, Calls, silver-throated And stern, where the tables Are spread, and the work Of the Lord is in hand!

Life is (I think) a blunder and a shame.

Far in the stillness a cat Languishes loudly. A cinder Falls, and the shadows Lurch to the leap of the flame.

Ho! then, the splendour And sheen of my ministry, Clothing the earth With a livery of lightnings! Ho! then, the music Of battles in onset

Bland as a Jesuit, sober as a hymn.