Quote#Nature
I learnt the language of the birds
Quote byVictor Daley · 1858–1905
Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: "St. Francis II", in Wine and Roses (1911).
English (original)
I learnt the language of the birds, A new St. Francis I would be; But, when I understood their words — The birds were preaching unto me.
— Victor Daley
More from Victor Daley
The Missionary labours With zeal, and pious art, And rice, and cabin biscuit, In hope to change his heart;And dear old British ladies The Lord would fain cajole, And humbly crave that He will save
Six days he does no work, and The seventh takes for rest.
The narrow, thorny path he trod. "Enter into My joy," said God. The sad ascetic shook his head; "I've lost all taste for joy," he said.
Ah apple caused man's fall, as some believe; But that old Snake, malevolently wise, A deadlier snare set when he left to Eve His tongue of honey and mesmeric eyes.
Other Bards I envy not — Room there is for all, God wot — All I ask is room for me On the top branch of the tree.
Must we all in grovel wallow Like to bisons in a bog — Must we call him an Apollo If he is not quite a hog?