Thomas Hardy
John and Jane
I

He sees the world as a boisterous place
Where all things bear a laughing face,
And humorous scenes go hourly on,
       &nbsp Does John.

II

They find the world a pleasant place
Where all is ecstasy and grace,
Where a light has risen that cannot wane,
       &nbsp Do John and Jane.

III


They see as a palace their cottage-place,
Containing a pearl of the human race,
A hero, maybe, hereafter styled,
       &nbsp Do John and Jane with a baby-child.

IV

They rate the world as a gruesome place,
Where fair looks fade to a skull's grimace, -
As a pilgrimage they would fain get done -
       &nbsp Do John and Jane with their worthless son.