Poetry Archives

Last year the shops were crowded
  With soldier suits and guns—
The presents that at Christmas time
  We give our little sons;
And many a glittering trumpet
  And many a sword and drum;
But as they’re made in Germany
  This year they will not come.

Perhaps another season
  We shall not give our boys
Such very warlike playthings,
  Such military toys;
Perhaps another season
  We shall not think it sweet
To watch their game of soldier men,
  Who dream not of defeat.