The Tree UProoted — In memory of Roger Casement

THE TREE UPROOTED  (In Memory of Roger Casement)

The earth-bound giant now is free, is free ; The last fight over, and the last moan still; No tale of snow-clad heights where great dreams be. His exile heart can thrill.

Ah! how he cried with groaning branch and bough. For that far land beyond the sunshine morn, For that last joy, tilled earth will not allow, That land where he was born.   Ah! how his heart that fought for freedom pined ; His leaves, like restless fingers, tried to hold The trailing garments of the passing wind, His struggle manifold.

The four winds heard and strove with mighty hands To bear him back to that far northern height Where he was born; loosed from his earthly bonds, He poised, a moment's flight.

Then to the wind in passionate embrace His branches moved — out sung his parting breath. He leaned to freedom from his prison place, Whose freedom was but death.

Better so lie, from this dire bondage free, O! heart, who knew the silence of the snows. Than stand alone, O solitary tree ! Where English greenwood grows.

Better to die than live in dull disgrace, O! soul that dreamed the glory of the dream; To be for sparrows but a resting place. Who heard the eagles scream. — Dora Sigerson Shorter / Frank Callery ©