Christina Rossetti — A Hope Carol

A night was near, a day was near;          Between a day and night I heard sweet voices calling clear,                  Calling me: I heard a whirr of wing on wing,          But could not see the sight; I long to see my birds that sing,--                  I long to see. Below the stars, beyond the moon,          Between the night and day, I heard a rising falling tune                  Calling me: I long to see the pipes and strings          Whereon such minstrels play; I long to see each face that sings,--                  I long to see. To-day or may be not to-day,          To-night or not to-night; All voices that command or pray,                  Calling me, Shall kindle in my soul such fire,          And in my eyes such light, That I shall see that heart's desire                  I long to see.