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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


AN ODE (4) by MATTHEW PRIOR

First Line: WHILE FROM OUR LOOKS, FAIR NYMPH, YOU GUESS
Last Line: FAIR PROPHETESS, MY GRIEF WOULD CEASE.
Subject(s): LOVE; MERCY; NYMPHS; PROPHECY & PROPHETS; SECRETS;

WHILE from our looks, fair nymph, you guess
The secret passions of our mind,
My heavy eyes, you say, confess
A heart to love and grief inclined.

There needs, alas! but little art,
To have this fatal secret found;
With the same ease you threw the dart,
'Tis certain you may show the wound.

How can I see you, and not love,
While you as opening east are fair?
While cold as northern blasts you prove,
How can I love, and not despair!

The wretch in double fetters bound
Your potent mercy may release;
Soon, if my love but once were crowned,
Fair prophetess, my grief would cease.



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