Emily Dickinson

He gave away his Life

567 He gave away his Life— To Us—Gigantic Sum— A trifle—in his own esteem— But magnified—by Fame— Until it burst the Hearts That fancied they could hold— When swift it slipped its limit— And on the Heavens—unrolled— 'Tis Ours—to wince—and weep— And wonder—and decay By Blossoms gradual process— He chose—Maturity— And quickening—as we sowed— Just obviated Bud— And when We turned to note the Growth— Broke—perfect—from the Pod—