Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, TO HIMSELF; AN ODE, by ANACREON



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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

TO HIMSELF; AN ODE, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: When fumes of wine ascend into my brain
Last Line: I'm sure 'tis better to be drunk, than dead.
Alternate Author Name(s): Anakreon; Anacreontea
Subject(s): Alcoholism & Alcoholics; Self; Drunkards; Alcohol Abuse


WHEN fumes of Wine ascend into my brain,
Care sleeps, and I the bustling world disdain,
Nor all the wealth of Croesus I esteem,
I sing of mirth, for Jollity's my theme.

With garlands, I my ruby temples crown,
Keeping rebellious thoughts of business down;
In broils, and wars, while others take delight,
I with choice friends indulge my appetite.

Then fetch more bottles, Boy, and charge us round,
We'll fall to Bacchus, victims on the ground;
Nor value what dull moralists have said,
I'm sure 'tis better to be drunk, than dead.





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