For many unsuccessful years At Cynthia's feet I lay; And often bathed them with my tears, Despaired, but durst not pray. No prostrate wretch, before the shrine Of any saint above, E'er thought his goddess more divine, Or paid more awful love. Still the disdainful dame looked down With an insulting pride; Received my passion with a frown, Or tossed her head aside. When Cupid whispered in my ear, 'Use more prevailing charms, Fond, whining, modest fool, draw near, And clasp her in your arms. 'With eager kisses tempt the maid, From Cynthia's feet depart; The lips he warmly must invade Who would possess the heart.' With that I shook off all my fears, My better fortune tried; And Cynthia gave what she for years Had foolishly denied. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...THEME IN YELLOW by CARL SANDBURG SPANIARDS' GRAVES AT THE ISLES OF SHOALS by CELIA LEIGHTON THAXTER TO HIS HEART, BIDDING IT HAVE NO FEAR by WILLIAM BUTLER YEATS PILLBOX by EDMUND CHARLES BLUNDEN |