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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


A LOVER'S ANGER by MATTHEW PRIOR

Poem Explanation

First Line: AS CLOE CAME INTO THE ROOM THE OTHER DAY
Last Line: AND FORGOT EVERY WORD I DESIGNED TO HAVE SAID.
Subject(s): BREASTS; DESIRE; LATENESS; LOVE;

As Cloe came into the room the other day,
I peevish began: "Where so long could you stay?
In your life-time you never regarded your hour:
You promised at two; and (pray look, child) 'tis four.
A lady's watch needs neither figures nor wheels:
'Tis enough, that 'tis loaded with baubles and seals.
A temper so heedless no mortal can bear --"
Thus far I went on with a resolute air.
"Lord bless me," said she, "Let a body but speak:
Here's an ugly hard rosebud fall'n into my neck:
It has hurt me, and vexed me to such a degree --
See here! for you never believe me; pray see,
On the left side of my breast what a mark it has made!"
So saying, her bosom she careless displayed:
That seat of delight I with wonder surveyed,
And forgot every word I designed to have said.



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