The Song Sparrow

The Song Sparrow
by E. C. Herrick

Of all the merry singers
With which the world is blest,
A happy little neighbor
Is the bird I like the best.
For wherever you go straying
You can hear his round-e-lay;
As if his heart were saying
"How sweet-sweet-sweet-the world is."
I can tell him by his motion
And the spot upon his breast,
But by his little ditty,
I know and love him best.
For he sings in all the seasons,
In the sunshine and the rain.
He sings as if he reasons,
"How sweet-sweet-sweet-the world is."

Though his song is very humble,
He sings it from his heart.
He lures you not to wooded deeps
By some illusive art,
But he bravely waits to meet you,
Like a genial, kindly friend,
And with this song he greets you-
"How sweet-sweet-sweet-the world is."
And so, my little sparrow,
We have named you for your sone;
For by your cheery presence
You help the world along.
And whoever passes near you
May catch the same refrain;
If he has ears to hear you-
"How sweet-sweet-sweet-the world is."