Behind the Arras
July 6, 2023A Song before Sailing
July 6, 2023A Vagabond Song
There is something in the autumn that is native to my blood—
Touch of manner, hint of mood;
And my heart is like a rhyme,
With the yellow and the purple and the crimson keeping time.
The scarlet of the maples can shake me like a cry
Of bugles going by.
And my lonely spirit thrills
To see the frosty asters like a smoke upon the hills.
There is something in October sets the gypsy blood astir;
We must rise and follow her,
When from every hill of flame
She calls and calls each vagabond by name.
William Bliss Carman
William Bliss Carman (1861-1929) was a Canadian poet who was associated with the Confederation Poets. He is known for his celebration of nature and for his use of imagery and symbolism. His most famous works include "Low Tide on Grand Pré" and "The Rough Rider." Carman was also a professor of English at Harvard University and a mentor to many younger poets.