The Faithless Shadows

 The faithless shadows of day are running 
And high and clear is the call of bells, 
Steps of the church are blazed as with the lightning, 
Their stones are alive and wait for your light steps. 

You'll here pass and touch the chilly stone, 
That's dressed in awful sanity of span, 
And let the flower of spring be thrown 
Here, in this dark, before the eyes of saint. 

The rose shadows in misty darkness grow, 
And high and clear is the call of bells, 
The darkness lays on steps, such old and low -- 
I'm set in light -- I wait for dear steps.

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