Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, VERSES: THE MASTER'S SPEECH, by JOHN BYROM


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

VERSES: THE MASTER'S SPEECH, by                 Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography
First Line: Our worthy founder, gentlemen, this day
Last Line: Take what you like, sirs, and excuse the rest.
Subject(s): Plagiarism; Poetry & Poets; Speech; Oratory; Orators


Our worthy Founder, Gentlemen, this day
Appoints our youth an hour's poetic play,
And that I yearly at this time should choose
A single subject for their varied muse,
That you may see how fancy will create
A diff'rent image in each youngster's pate.

Now, since our Milton, a renowned name,
Has been attack'd for stealing into fame,
I told them,—"Lads, now be upon your guard;
"Exert yourselves, and save your famous bard.
"He's call'd a plagiary;—'tis yours to shew
"The vain reproach, to silence Milton's foe.

"The point at which ye now must take your aim,
"Remember as ye rhyme, is MILTON'S FAME;
"Fame as a Poet only, as attack'd
"For plund'ring verses:—ne'er contest the fact;
"Defend your bard, tho' granted; and confine
"To three times six, at most, your eager line."

Then lend a fav'ring ear while they rehearse
Short, and almost extemporary verse,
A thought work'd up that came into the mind,
With rhymes the first and fittest they could find:
Such was their task;—the boys have done their best;
Take what you like, Sirs, and excuse the rest.





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