Poetry Explorer


Classic and Contemporary Poetry


LIPS AND EYES by THOMAS CAREW

Poet Analysis

First Line: IN CELIA'S FACE A QUESTION DID ARISE
Last Line: WEEPING OR SMILING PEARLS, TO CELIA'S FACE.
Subject(s): EYES; FACES; LIPS;

IN Celia's face a question did arise,
Which were more beautiful, her lips or eyes?
"We," said the eyes, "send forth those pointed darts
Which pierce the hardest adamantine hearts."
"From us," repli'd the lips, "proceed those blisses
Which lovers reap by kind words and sweet kisses."
Then wept the eyes, and from their springs did pour
Of liquid oriental pearl a shower;
Whereat the lips, mov'd with delight and pleasure,
Through a sweet smile unlock'd their pearly treasure
And bade Love judge, whether did add more grace,
Weeping or smiling pearls, to Celia's face.



Home: PoetryExplorer.net