Sonnet 2: Not that I always struck the proper mean

Sonnet 2: Not that I always struck the proper mean 

by Alan Seeger

Not that I always struck the proper mean 

Of what mankind must give for what they gain, 

But, when I think of those whom dull routine 

And the pursuit of cheerless toil enchain, 

Who from their desk-chairs seeing a summer cloud 

Race through blue heaven on its joyful course 

Sigh sometimes for a life less cramped and bowed, 

I think I might have done a great deal worse; 

For I have ever gone untied and free, 

The stars and my high thoughts for company; 

Wet with the salt-spray and the mountain showers, 

I have had the sense of space and amplitude, 

And love in many places, silver-shoed, 

Has come and scattered all my path with flowers.