Come to the sunset tree! The day is past and gone; The woodman's axe lies free, And the reaper's work is done.
Attribution disputed; shown as originally published.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The poem reflects on the end of a day or life, suggesting that labor ceases and peace arrives.
- In plain terms
- Work is done and rest is time as the day ends.
- What can you take from it?
- Accept the end of effort and find peace in completion.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What marks the end of your daily labor?
- How do you signal rest?
Another view
It romanticizes ending work without acknowledging unfinished tasks.
More from Felicia Hemans
Leaves have their time to fall, And flowers to wither at the north-wind's breath, And stars to set; but all, Thou hast all seasons for thine own, O Death!
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