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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

OF ROSALIND, FR. ROSALIND [ROSALYNDE] by THOMAS LODGE

Poem Explanation Poet Analysis

First Line: OF ALL CHASTE BIRDS THE PHOENIX DOTH EXCEL
Last Line: IF ROSALIND PROVE CRUEL AND UNKIND.
Subject(s): LOVE;
Of all chaste birds the Phoenix doth excel,
Of all strong beasts the Lion bears the bell,
Of all sweet flowers the Rose doth sweetest smell,
Of all fair maids my Rosalind is fairest.

Of all pure metals Gold is purely best,
Of all high trees the Pine hath highest crest,
Of all soft sweets, I like my mistress' breast.
Of all chaste thoughts my mistress' thoughts are rarest.

Of all proud birds the Eagle pleaseth Jove,
Of pretty fowles Venus likes her Dove,
Of trees Minerva doth the Olive love,
Of all sweet Nymphs I honour Rosalind.

Of all her gifts her wisdom pleaseth most,
Of all her graces, virtue she doth boast.
For all these gifts my life and joy are lost
If Rosalind prove cruel and unkind.



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