Songs of Joy

 Sing out, my soul, thy songs of joy; 
Sing as a happy bird will sing 
Beneath a rainbow's lovely arch 
In the spring.

Think not of death in thy young days; 
Why shouldst thou that grim tyrant fear? 
And fear him not when thou art old, 
And he is near.

Strive not for gold, for greedy fools 
Measure themselves by poor men never; 
Their standard still being richer men, 
Makes them poor ever.

Train up thy mind to feel content, 
What matters then how low thy store? 
What we enjoy, and not possess, 
Makes rich or poor.

Filled with sweet thought, then happy I 
Take not my state from other's eyes; 
What's in my mind -- not on my flesh 
Or theirs -- I prize.

Sing, happy soul, thy songs of joy; 
Such as a Brook sings in the wood, 
That all night has been strengthened by 
Heaven's purer flood.

Form: Ballad Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace