Biblio Files: talking about books

How Can I Keep From Singing
A Traditional Shaker Hymn
My life goes on in endless song
above earth's lamentations,
I hear the real, though far-off hymn
that hails a new creation.

Through all the tumlt and the strife
I hear its music ringing,
it sounds an echo in my soul.
How can I keep from singing?

When tyrants tremble in their fear
and hear their death knell ringing,
when frineds rejoice both far and near
how can I keep from singing?

In prison cell and dungeon vile
our thoughts to them are winging,
when friends by shame are undefiled,
how can I keep from singing?