What does a father bestow on his son
Ere he can claim that his title is won?
More than the seed of a life he must give.
He is the pattern of how men should live:
Strength that supports without having to show,
Patience to teach what a youngster should know,
Loyalty's conscience and duty’s decree,
Courage to challenge the evils that be,
Kindness, compassion, a measure of cheer ---
These to his son make the father-role clear,
Plus what lifts men 'bove the slime of the sod:
Faith in each other and faith in their God.
What does a daughter receive from her Dad?
Comfort when something is making her sad,
Reasoned advice when dilemmas occur
Thoughtfully, tenderly, tailored for her;
Hope to finance all her castles in air
Lent with an interest both of them share;
Joy o'er her joy; mirth o’er her mirth,
Pride in her works and her womanly worth;
Home as the model until she is grown
Like unto that she would have for her own;
Knowledge that she has his favor for life,
Sharing love's pinnacle close to his wife.
Margaret Rorke (1915-2000) wrote poetry that was regularly published on the editorial pages of The Saginaw News (2,824 different poems in all). From 1975 through 1990, approximately 400 of her poems were featured in Judd Arnett’s column in The Detroit Free Press, and her poetry appeared in countless other settings throughout her lifetime.
The digital edition of her 4,000 published poems as well as her three books of poetry have recently been added to the Library of Congress's collection of American poetry.
Download or print any poem from this website and email or send it to friends or family members. It will brighten their day!
Hang up a poem that inspires you somewhere in your home where you’ll see it often, and it will bring you joy every day!
Many of Margaret’s poems tickle the funny poem, and your children are sure to enjoy them. Make them a bedtime read!
Margaret Rorke published over 4,000 poems in her lifetime. If you are looking for a poem on a particular topic, please fill out the form here, and her daughter, Peg, and son, Bob, will be in touch with what they can find.