Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, SONNET: MAN VERSUS ASCETIC. 1, by LOUISA SARAH BEVINGTON



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SONNET: MAN VERSUS ASCETIC. 1, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: Soul, who would'st prove and know thyself for strong
Last Line: And thy best weakness save thee; not thy strength.
Alternate Author Name(s): Leigh, Arbor; Guggenberger, Mrs. Ignatz; Bevington, L. S.


SOUL, who would'st prove and know thyself for strong,
Soul, who hast not a tyrant sin beside,
Masked at thine elbow struts the flatterer -- Pride,
Whose whisper has befooled thine heart for long.
Lash thee at thine own shrine with shameful thong?
Soft-handed Nemesis between shall glide,
To balk the smart thou seekest to abide, --
Daring at self's behest that holiest wrong.
Lo! thy good sword that seldom smites in vain
One day shall fail thy pride lest thou be lost; --
Slip in thine hold, and slay thine idol, Pain,
Win for thee treasure who would pay but cost;
Sweet punishment be pride's reward at length,
And thy best weakness save thee; not thy strength.







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