To Papa

by

To Papa is a brief, affectionate poem Alcott wrote for her father Bronson in December 1887, just months before both their deaths, likening him to a beloved philosopher under Minerva's protection. "Long may he live to use the life / The hidden goddess gave."
A.B.A. 

In high Olympus' sacred shade
A gift Minerva wrought
For her beloved philosopher
Immersed in deepest thought.

A shield to guard his aged breast
With its enchanted mesh
When he his nectar and ambrosia took
To strengthen and refresh.

Long may he live to use the life
The hidden goddess gave,
To keep unspotted to the end
The gentle, just, and brave.

December, 1887.

Alcott was extremely close to her father, as this poem and A.B.A. attest. You may also enjoy her tribute poem for her mother, Abby Alcott, titled Transfiguration.