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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


SAPPHO AND PHAON: 13. SHE ENDEAVOURS TO FASCINATE HIM by MARY DARBY ROBINSON

First Line: BRING, BRING TO DECK MY BROW, YE SYLVAN GIRLS
Last Line: AND CHARMS THE MOST CONCEALED, ARE DOUBLY GRACED.

Bring, bring to deck my brow, ye Sylvan girls,
A roseate wreath; nor for my waving hair
The costly band of studded gems prepare,
Of sparkling crysolite or orient pearls:
Love, o'er my head his canopy unfurls,
His purple pinions fan the whispering air;
Mocking the golden sandal, rich and rare,
Beneath my feet the fragrant woodbine curls.
Bring the thin robe, to fold about my breast,
White as the downy swan; while round my waist
Let leaves of glossy myrtle bind the vest,
Not idly gay, but elegantly chaste!
Love scorns the nymph in wanton trappings dressed;
And charms the most concealed, are doubly graced.



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