One Poem Only is a daily ritual: one poem, center stage, just for now.

Comrades

Ella Wheeler Wilcox

I and my Soul are alone to-day,

All in the shining weather;

We were sick of the world, and put it away,

So we could rejoice together.

Our host, the Sun, in the blue, blue sky

Is mixing a rare, sweet wine,

In the burnished gold of this cup on high,

For me, and this Soul of mine.

We find it a safe and royal drink,

And a cure for every pain;

It helps us to love, and helps us to think,

And strengthens body and brain.

And sitting here, with my Soul alone,

Where the yellow sun-rays fall,

Of all the friends I have ever known

I find it the BEST of all.

We rarely meet when the world is near,

For the World hath a pleasing art

And brings me so much that is bright and dear

That my Soul it keepeth apart.

But when I grow weary of mirth and glee,

Of glitter, glow, and splendour,

Like a tried old friend it comes to me,

With a smile that is sad and tender.

And we walk together as two friends may,

And laugh and drink God's wine.

Oh, a royal comrade any day

I find this Soul of mine.

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I’m filling the next chapter of One Poem Only and would love to include your work. Send me the poem you wrote and want the world to hear. New this round: if you’d like to read your own poem on the podcast, you can. No need for a perfect studio recording—just a clear audio file recorded in a quiet space. If you choose this option, you’ll submit your poem and an audio file of you reading it. Submissions close Thursday, July 30. I’ll respond by August 12. Whether I read your poem or you read it yourself, I’d love to hear what you’re ready to share.