4 JUNE 1942, Page 11

LIFE AND DEATH

AS to triumphant arms Life leaps to death,

And ends her daily harms With quiet breath.

She brings earth-gifts as dower.

Where strong death waits Life, fragile as a flower, Unlocks the gates.

The heavy gates scarce swing So slim she goes, Lightfoot as wind of spring, Transient as rose.

The dull gates open free, To zodiac height ; Like a wave to its waves of sea, Like a star to its night, Like a maid, but enriched with desire, Like a summer's breath, Life flees to her funeral pyre, The bride of death. FREYA STARK.