Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, SONNET, by JOACHIM DU BELLAY


Poetry Explorer

Classic and Contemporary Poetry

SONNET, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: Friend, let us live-live, live, in all despite
Last Line: And thwarts each wish that nature in him placed.
Alternate Author Name(s): Du Bellay, Joachim


FRIEND, let us live--live, live, in all despite
Of greybeards--never cease to make good cheer!
Live! Since our span of life is short and dear,
And even kings have but a tenant's right.

The day eve quenches, morn restores to light.
The seasons are renewed each rolling year;
But when man's pleasant life shall disappear,
Death steeps his senses in eternal night.

What! A beast's life to lead shall we be said?
No! But towards heaven ay lifting up our head,
Let us sometimes the sweets of pleasure taste.

He is not wise who changes certainty
Of present good for hope which may belie,
And thwarts each wish that nature in him placed.





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