How blest was the created state Of man and woman, ere they fell, Compared to our unhappy fate: We need not fear another hell. Naked beneath cool shades they lay; Enjoyment waited on desire; Each member did their wills obey, Nor could a wish set pleasure higher. But we, poor slaves to hope and fear, Are never of our joys secure; They lessen still as they draw near, And none but dull delights endure. Then, Chloris, while I duly pay The nobler tribute of my heart, Be not you so severe to say You love me for the frailer part. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...OLNEY HYMNS: 35. LIGHT SHINING OUT OF DARKNESS by WILLIAM COWPER LESSER EPISTLES: TO A YOUNG LADY WITH SOME LAMPREYS by JOHN GAY LEGEND by JOHN VAN ALSTYN WEAVER VANITAS VANITATUM, FR. THE DEVIL'S CASE LAW by JOHN WEBSTER |