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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

SONGS FROM THE SEARCH OF BELISARIUS: THE CYPRIOT'S SONG by PERCY STICKNEY GRANT

First Line: TWO THINGS THE GODS CANNOT DESTROY
Last Line: WHERE SACRIFICE IS PAID.
Subject(s): BELISARIUS (505-565); CONSTANTINOPLE; GENERALS; ISTAMBUL; BYZANTIUM;
Two things the gods cannot destroy,
Although they envy human joy,
And blast men's smiles,
Washing their face with tears; --
Beauty of women, that beguiles,
Strength of men, through youth's brief years;
Eyes of brightness,
Limbs of lightness.
These must the gods desire;
Or end the race they made
And quench the altar-fire,
Where sacrifice is paid.



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