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Classic and Contemporary Poetry
ON THE DEATH OF RICHARD WEST, by THOMAS GRAY Poet Analysis Poet's Biography
First Line: In vain to me the smiling mornings shine
Last Line: And weep the more, because I weep in vain.
Variant Title(s): Sonnet On The Death Of Richard West;on The Death Of Mr.richard West
Subject(s): Grief; Mourning; West, Richard (1716-1742); Sorrow; Sadness; Bereavement
First Line: In vain to me the smiling mornings shine
Last Line: And weep the more, because I weep in vain.
Variant Title(s): Sonnet On The Death Of Richard West;on The Death Of Mr.richard West
Subject(s): Grief; Mourning; West, Richard (1716-1742); Sorrow; Sadness; Bereavement
In vain to me the smiling mornings shine,
And reddening Phoebus lifts his golden fire;
The birds in vain their amorous descant join,
Or cheerful fields resume their green attire;
These ears, alas! for other notes repine,
A different object do these eyes require;
My lonely anguish melts no heart but mine,
And in my breast the imperfect joys expire.
Yet morning smiles the busy race to cheer,
And newborn pleasure brings to happier men;
The fields to all their wonted tribute bear;
To warm their little loves the birds complain:
I fruitless mourn to him that cannot hear,
And weep the more, because I weep in vain.
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