Only A Dad
A great poem by Edgar A. Guest to share with your Dad. Fathers sometimes feel like they are only a dad, however, what they do and what they provide for their children is more than the richest of men could ever provide. Let the verses in this poem remind you of the importance and of the special qualities that dads have!
If you enjoyed the heartfelt message in this poem, you may also appreciate these inspiring Fathers Day Poems that honor the love, sacrifice, and guidance fathers give to their families every day.
Updated May 15, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
Only A Dad
Only a dad with a tired face,
Coming home from the daily race,
Bringing little of gold or fame
To show how well he has played the game;
But glad in his heart that his own rejoice
To see him come and to hear his voice.
Only a dad with a brood of four,
One of ten million men or more
Plodding along in the daily strife,
Bearing the whips and the scorns of life,
With never a whimper of pain or hate,
For the sake of those who at home await.
Only a dad, neither rich nor proud,
Merely one of the surging crowd
Toiling, striving from day to day,
Facing whatever may come his way,
Silent whenever the harsh condemn,
And bearing it all for the love of them.
Only a dad but he gives his all
To smooth the way for his children small,
Doing with courage stern and grim,
The deeds that his father did for him.
This is the line that for him I pen:
Only a dad, but the best of men.
Key Messages in this poem:
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A Father’s Love Is Shown Through Sacrifice
The poem reminds us that many fathers quietly work hard every day, putting the needs of their family before their own comfort or recognition.
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Ordinary Fathers Do Extraordinary Things
Edgar Guest shows that a dad does not need wealth or fame to be important, as his daily care and dedication make a lasting difference in the lives of his children.
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Strength Can Be Quiet And Steady
The father faces life’s struggles without complaint, showing courage, patience, and perseverance through the challenges of daily life.
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Family Gives Meaning To Hard Work
The joy of returning home to his children gives the father purpose and reminds readers that love makes sacrifice worthwhile.
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Good Values Are Passed Down Through Generations
The poem highlights how fathers often continue the example set by their own parents, passing along love, responsibility, and care to the next generation.
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True Greatness Is Found In Character
Although described as “only a dad,” the poem honors fathers as some of the best people because of their kindness, devotion, and unselfish love.
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Conclusion
“Only A Dad” by Edgar Guest is a timeless reminder that true greatness is not measured by wealth or fame, but by love, sacrifice, and devotion to family. The poem honors the everyday father who quietly works hard, faces life’s struggles with courage, and gives his all for the happiness of his children. Its message continues to inspire readers to appreciate the fathers and father figures whose steady love shapes lives in meaningful ways.
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