Dagda’s Harp
BY James H. Cousins
(Dagda was the All-Father of the ancient Celtic pantheon. As sri Krishna played the tune of the Infinite on his flute, so Dagda played on his harp three tunes that induced sorrow, delight and sleep.)
When the Harp of Dagda plays
Down the wood-ways withering;
After summer’s vanished swallows
Silence comes, and sorrow follows
On a raven wing,
As the Harp of Dagda plays
Down autumnal ways.
When the Harp of Dagda plays
Where the blazing pine-log cheers;
Festively from roof to rafter
Rises jest and song and laughter:
Laughter after tears,
As the Harp of Dagda plays
Round the festive blaze.
When the Harp of Dagda plays
At the day’s long-shadowed close;
Shadows drooping eyes encumber.
Good is toil, but, better, slumber,
Deep, divine repose,
When the Harp of Dagda plays
After weary days.