My Inner Life

iantfoto/Gettyimages

 'Tis true my garments threadbare are,

          And sorry poor I seem;

But inly I am richer far

          Than any poet's dream.

For I've a hidden life no one

          Can ever hope to see;

A sacred sanctuary none

          May share with me.

         

Aloof I stand from out the strife,

          Within my heart a song;

By virtue of my inner life

          I to myself belong.

Against man-ruling I rebel,

          Yet do not fear defeat,

For to my secret citadel

          I may retreat.

Oh you who have an inner life

          Beyond this dismal day

With wars and evil rumours rife,

          Go blessedly your way.

Your refuge hold inviolate;

          Unto yourself be true,

And shield serene from sordid fate

          The Real You.

            

              

                

Robert William Service