Renascence: A Book of Verse — Rondeau -- The Old and the New

RONDEAU—THE OLD AND NEW

THE Old and New together meet, Around the world, across the street, As neighbours, side by side, that grew;

As friends, or foes, as false or true, Whose tale the heedless hours repeat.

Two stems entwined to part and greet, From one root springing, bitter-sweet With flower and fruitage, seed to strew, The Old and New.

Since, serpent-twined, their knowledge knew The heart of man, between the two, With clinging hands and winged feet He stands the sport of Time’s deceit, The parti-coloured shield in view— The Old and New.