Room to See the Sky

One by one, like leaves from a tree,
All my faiths have forsaken me;
But the stars above my head
Burn in white and delicate red,
And beneath my feet the earth
Brings the sturdy grass to birth.
I who was content to be
But a silken-singing tree,
But a rustle of delight
In the wistful heart of night
I have lost the leaves that knew
Touch of rain and weight of dew.
Blinded by a leafy crown
I looked neither up nor down
But the little leaves that die
Have left me room to see the sky;
Now for the first time I know
Stars above and earth below.

Sara Teasdale (1884–1933) was an American lyric poet known for her clear, intimate writing and her frequent use of natural imagery to explore inner emotional life. She often returned to themes of solitude, longing, and personal transformation, and her work reflects a tension between the comfort of familiar structures and the pull toward independence. In this poem, Teasdale traces a significant shift in perspective. While the poem opens with a sense of loss, the speaker quickly turns to the expanded horizon that the leaves, her former source of shelter, once hid from view.
Maturing toward independence can be both scary and exhilarating. In the music, you will find moments of excitement for what lies ahead alongside a quieter sense of loss for the safety we leave behind. As you rehearse this piece, take some time to feel both. Hold gratitude for the people and places that have protected you so far, and embrace the identity that is forming as you move into new challenges.

Sara Teasdale (1884-1933)

Room to See the Sky choral track bundle contains a part dominant track for each voice part, a balanced voices track, and an accompaniment track if the work is not a cappella (the accompaniment is also included with the part dominant and balanced voices track). Get more information and listen to samples HERE. Please note that the choral score is not included in the bundle and needs to be ordered separately.

Price: $49.99 (Each bundle is licensed to be used by up to 50 users)
Please adjust the quantity accordingly if you have more than 50 users.