Poem by Thomas Hood

Reflections on a New Year’s Day

Yes, yes, it’s very true, and very clear!
By way of compliment and common chat,
It’s very well to wish me a New Year;
But wish me a new hat!

Although not spent in luxury and ease,
In course a longer life I won’t refuse;
But while you’re wishing, wish me, if you please,
A newer pair of shoes!

Nay, while new things and wishes are afloat,
I own to one that I should not rebut –
Instead of this old rent, to have a coat
With more of the New Cut!

O yes, ’tis very pleasant, though I’m poor,
To hear the steeple make that merry din;
Except I wish one bell was at the door,
To ring new trousers in.

To be alive is very nice indeed,
Although another year at last departs;
Only with twelve new months I rather need
A dozen of new shirts.

Yes, yes, it’s very true, and very clear!
By way of compliment and common chat,
It’s very well to wish me a New Year,
But wish me a new hat!

1. Written in Keats' “Endymion”
2. Sonnet on Receiving a Gift
3. Sonnet for the 14th of February
4. In Rotterdam
5. The World Is with Me

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