Joaquin (Cincinnatus Hiner) Miller

Don't Stop at the Station Despair

WE must trust the Conductor, most surely;
Why, millions of millions before
Have made this same journey securely
And come to that ultimate shore.
And we, we will reach it in season;
And ah, what a welcome is there!
Reflect then, how out of all reason
To stop at the Station Despair.

Ay, midnights and many a potion
Of bitter black water have we
As we journey from ocean to ocean
From sea unto ultimate sea
To that deep sea of seas, and all silence
Of passion, concern and of care
That vast sea of Eden-set Islands
Don't stop at the Station Despair!

Go forward, whatever may follow,
Go forward, friend-led, or alone;
Ah me, to leap off in some hollow
Or fen, in the night and unknown
Leap off like a thief ; try to hide you
From angels, all waiting you there I
Go forward; whatever betide you
Don't stop at the Station Despair!