Alan Seeger

Here you will find the Poem To England at the Outbreak of the Balkan War of poet Alan Seeger

To England at the Outbreak of the Balkan War

A cloud has lowered that shall not soon pass o'er. 
The world takes sides: whether for impious aims 
With Tyranny whose bloody toll enflames 
A generous people to heroic war; 
Whether with Freedom, stretched in her own gore, 
Whose pleading hands and suppliant distress 
Still offer hearts that thirst for Righteousness 
A glorious cause to strike or perish for. 
England, which side is thine? Thou hast had sons 
Would shrink not from the choice however grim, 
Were Justice trampled on and Courage downed; 
Which will they be -- cravens or champions? 
Oh, if a doubt intrude, remember him 
Whose death made Missolonghi holy ground.