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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


TO LORD HERVEY AND LADY MARY WORTLEY by ALEXANDER POPE

Poet Analysis

First Line: WHEN I BUT CALL A FLAGRANT WHORE UNSOUND
Last Line: AND SWEET ADONIS -- YOU HAVE LOST A TOOTH.
Subject(s): HERVEY, JOHN. BARON HERVEY OF ICKWORTH; MONTAGU, LADY MARY WORTLEY (1689-1762);

When I but call a flagrant Whore unsound,
Or have a Pimp or Flaterer in the Wind,
Sapho enrag'd crys out your Back is round,
Adonis screams -- Ah! Foe to all Mankind!

Thanks, dirty Pair! you teach me what to say,
When you attack my Morals, Sense, or Truth,
I answer thus -- poor Sapho you grow grey,
And sweet Adonis -- you have lost a Tooth.



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