TENNYSON offers a character lesson from the natural world to humankind in these simple but effective lines.

THE OAK

Live thy Life,

Young and old,

Like yon oak,

Bright in spring,

Living gold,

Summer-rich

Then; and then

Autumn-changed,

Soberer-hued

Gold again.

All his leaves

Fall'n at length,

Look, he stands,

Trunk and bough,

Naked strength.