Muse and Mint

Chapter 15: FIRESIDE

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About This Book

A varied collection of short lyrical poems that observes nature and rural life, using seasonal imagery—sap, snow, rivers, cherries—and simple domestic scenes to reflect on change, beauty, and small joys. Sections shift between fireside recollections, sentimental and philosophical meditations, homiletic and religious pieces, and light humor, blending devotional songlike verses with moral aphorisms and affectionate memory. The voice moves between wistful and buoyant moods, finding consolation and ethical insight in commonplace experiences, while concise stanzas and vivid images emphasize mood and moral reflection rather than a continuous narrative.

FIRESIDE

MOTHER

Only one link is to us all

A never-failing bond,

Only one thought of time’s recall

Makes all the world respond.

Dear ties there are that knit us close

As parent, friend or brother;

But God a universal chose

In the dear name of “Mother!”

Only one face no stranger is

Sometime at every side,

Only one love whose holy kiss

To few has been denied;

And whether we it treasure up

Or its affection smother,

Yet still the world’s communion-cup

Is the dear name of “Mother!”

Only one touch of nature makes

Us feel alike at best,

Only one gift for our sakes

Outbalances the rest;

And whether good or evil, we

Are human to each other

When our most sacred memory

Is the dear name of “Mother!”