There was a time
Edward Thomas
1878 to 1917
Track 1
Reconstruct the poem by dragging each line into its correct position. Your goal is to reassemble the original poem as accurately as possible. As you move the lines, you'll see whether your arrangement is correct, helping you explore the poem's flow and meaning. You can also print out the jumbled poem to cut up and reassemble in the classroom. Either way, take your time, enjoy the process, and discover how the poet's words come together to create something truly beautiful.
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I sought yet hated pity till at length
Great as I wished, weakness was all my boast.
I earned it. Oh, too heavy was the cost.
Yet, except sometimes in a frosty air
Because it was less mighty than my mind
When my heels hammered out a melody
The care and weakness that I know—refuse
For what can neither ask nor heed his death.
And I had youth and never another care,
From pavements of a city left behind,
My youth and strength for, I deny the age,
There was a time when this poor frame was whole
Had dreamed of. Since I could not boast of strength
I never would acknowledge my own glee
Paid to a man who gives up eyes and breath
But now that there is something I could use
Or none that should have troubled a strong soul.
To admit I am unworthy of the wage