Page:Leaves of Grass (1860).djvu/102

And took my time, and took no hurt from the fetid
carbon.

306. Long I was hugged close—long and long.

307. Immense have been the preparations for me,
Faithful and friendly the arms that have helped me.

308. Cycles ferried my cradle, rowing and rowing like
cheerful boatmen,
For room to me stars kept aside in their own rings,
They sent influences to look after what was to
hold me.

309. Before I was born out of my mother, generations
guided me,
My embryo has never been torpid—nothing could
overlay it.

310. For it the nebula cohered to an orb,
The long slow strata piled to rest it on,
Vast vegetables gave it sustenance,
Monstrous sauroids transported it in their mouths,
and deposited it with care.

311. All forces have been steadily employed to complete
and delight me,
Now I stand on this spot with my Soul.

312. O span of youth! Ever-pushed elasticity!
O manhood, balanced, florid, and full.

313. My lovers suffocate me!
Crowding my lips, thick in the pores of my skin,
Jostling me through streets and public halls—
coming naked to me at night,