James Elroy Flecker

Sirmio

Little gem of all-but-islands and of islands, Sirmio,
Whether set in landlocked waters, or in Ocean’s freer flow–
Oh the pleasant seeing of thee, bright as ever–there below–
Far behind me, to the Northward, lie the dreamy lands of snow.
Oh the hour of mad rejoicing, oh the sweet good-bye to woe
As with quiet soul aweary of world-wandering to and fro
In we hurry through the doorway of our home of long ago...
Hail then, hail! Thy master welcome, welcome him, sweet Sirmio,
Leap for joy, ye tumbling waters, winking at the summer’s glow,
Gaily through the house resounding let the peals of laughter go.