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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


SAPPHO AND PHAON: 28. DESCRIBES THE FASCINATIONS OF LOVE by MARY DARBY ROBINSON

First Line: WEAK IS THE SOPHISTRY, AND VAIN THE ART
Last Line: AND ONE SWEET SMILE O'ERPAID AN AGE OF FEARS!

Weak is the sophistry, and vain the art
That whispers patience to the mind's despair!
That bids reflection bathe the wounds of care,
While Hope, with pleasing phantoms, soothes their smart;
For memory still, reluctant to depart
From the dear spot, once rich in prospects fair,
Bids the fond soul enamored linger there,
And its least charm is grateful to the heart!
He never loved, who could not muse and sigh,
Spangling the sacred turf with frequent tears,
Where the small rivulet, that ripples by,
Recalls the scenes of past and happier years,
When, on its banks he watched the speaking eye,
And one sweet smile o'erpaid an age of fears!



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