Contradiction (1923)
by Clark Ashton Smith
2654183Contradiction1923Clark Ashton Smith

I have calmed me with the thought of nothingness–
who know that none shall evermore escape
From the world’s dream and stand illusionless.

In fancy I have leaned from Lethe’s edge–
Knowing the driven dust will pass again
When the tomb has broke its sealed and marble pledge.

And I have smiled at the idleness of love–
Who find the swords of your unforgotten beauty
Posted before, behind me, and above.

This work is in the public domain in the United States because it was published before January 1, 1929.


The longest-living author of this work died in 1961, so this work is in the public domain in countries and areas where the copyright term is the author's life plus 62 years or less. This work may be in the public domain in countries and areas with longer native copyright terms that apply the rule of the shorter term to foreign works.

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