You Smile Upon Your Friend To-Day

Read 'You Smile Upon Your Friend To-Day' by 'A E Housman' and provide your summary and literary analysis in the comments section below.

You Smile Upon Your Friend To-Day by A E Housman

 You smile upon your friend to-day, 
To-day his ills are over; 
You hearken to the lover's say, 
And happy is the lover. 

'Tis late to hearken, late to smile, 
But better late than never; 
I shall have lived a little while 
Before I die for ever.

Form: Lyric 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