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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

A SONG by CHARLOTTE (RAMSAY) LENNOX

Poet Analysis

First Line: WHAT TORMENTS MUST THE VIRGIN PROVE
Last Line: REVEAL, OR MAKE MY PASSION LESS.
Subject(s): LOVE;
WHAT torments must the virgin prove
That feels the pangs of hopeless love.
What endless cares must rack the breast
That is by sure despair possessed.

When love in tender bosoms reigns,
With all its soft, its pleasing pains,
Why should it be a crime to own
The fatal flame we cannot shun?

The soul by nature formed sincere
A slavish forced disguise must wear,
Lest the unthinking world reprove
The heart that glows with generous love.

But oh! in vain the sigh's repressed,
That gently heaves the pensive breast,
The glowing blush, the falling tear,
The conscious wish, and silent fear.

Ye soft betrayers, aid my flame,
And give my new desires a name;
Some power my gentle griefs redress,
Reveal, or make my passion less.



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