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Classic and Contemporary Poetry
THE PERFECT LIFE, by WILLIAM HENRY DAVIES Poet Analysis
First Line: Who knows the perfect life on earth?
Last Line: And not inflict it on another?
Alternate Author Name(s): Davies, W. H.
Subject(s): Human Behavior; Conduct Of Life; Human Nature
First Line: Who knows the perfect life on earth?
Last Line: And not inflict it on another?
Alternate Author Name(s): Davies, W. H.
Subject(s): Human Behavior; Conduct Of Life; Human Nature
Who knows the perfect life on earth?
It lies beyond this mortal breath;
It is to give the same kind thoughts
To Life as we bequeath to Death.
It is to show a steadfast love;
As faithful to our friends that live
As our dead friends are to ourselves --
Sealed up from gossip, in the grave.
But who can lead this saintly life,
When friends are false and men unkind;
And every man will cheat a man
Whose trust, like faith in God, is blind.
Hang this pale fool, Philosophy!
Kind hearts obey themselves, no other:
Why like a saint can I take pain
And not inflict it on another?
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