We are not other than a moving row
Of Magic Shadow shapes that come and go
Round with the Sun-illumined Lantern held
In midnight by the Master of the Show.

Yesterday this Day's madness did prepare
Tomorrow's silence, Triumph or Dispair
Drink! for you know not whence you came, nor why
Drink! for you know not why you go, nor where.

Oh threats of Hell and hopes of Paradise!
One thing at least is certain-This Life flies
One thing is certain and the rest is lies
The Flower that once has blown for ever dies.

When you and I behind the Veil are past
Oh, but the long, long while the World shall last
Which of our Coming and Departure heeds
As the Sea's self should heed a pebble-cast.