Long Shadows
Maddy Prior
When long shadows fall and dwarf the trees at evening
When white winter light burnishes the streams
Then I will bring you a coat of soft lambs wool
To keep your back from the keen northern wind
When snow shames the sheep that huddle to the leeward
When snowdrops peep from darkness unfurled
Then I will bring you boots with fur linings
To keep your feet dry as you walk o'er the world
When home becomes a prison and snowdrifts lock the door
When February Fildyke drenches the moor
When black rain freezes and whips at your hand
Then I will bring you a carriage with wheels of wind
To take you away from this barren land