Laughing Song
by James Whitcomb Riley

Sing us something full of laughter;
&nbsp &nbsp Tune your harp, and twang the strings
Till your glad voice, chirping after,
&nbsp &nbsp Mates the song the robin sings:
Loose your lips and let them flutter
&nbsp &nbsp Like the wings of wanton birds, —
Though they naught but laughter utter,
&nbsp &nbsp Laugh, and we’ll not miss the words.

Sing in ringing tones that mingle
&nbsp &nbsp In a melody that flings
Joyous echoes in a jingle
&nbsp &nbsp Sweeter than the minstrel sings:
Sing of Winter, Spring, or Summer,
&nbsp &nbsp Clang of war, or low of herds;
Trill of cricket, roll of drummer–
&nbsp &nbsp Laugh, and we’ll not miss the words.

Like the lisping laughter glancing
&nbsp &nbsp From the meadow brooks and springs,
Or the river’s ripples dancing
&nbsp &nbsp To the tune the current sings–
Sing of Now, and the Hereafter;
&nbsp &nbsp Let your glad song, like the birds’,
Overflow with limpid laughter–
&nbsp &nbsp Laugh, and we’ll not miss the words.