William Cowper on Veterans Day
1731–1800 England
← All quotes by William Cowper
6 quotes
He stands erect; his slouch becomes a walk;
He steps right onward, martial in his air,
His form and movement.
The Task (1785)
But war's a game, which, were their subjects wise,
Kings would not play at.
The Task (1785)
Folly such as yours,
Grac'd with a sword, and worthier of a fan,
Has made what enemies could ne'er have done.
The Task (1785)
O for a lodge in some vast wilderness,
Some boundless contiguity of shade;
Where rumor of oppression and deceit,
Of unsuccessful or successful war,
Might never reach me more.
The Task (1785)
Hence jarring sectaries may learn
Their real interest to discern;
That brother should not war with brother,
And worry and devour each other.
Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take,
The clouds ye so much dread,
Are big with mercy, and shall break
In blessings on your head.
Olney Hymns (1779)