Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, ON A FAIR BEGGAR, by PHILIP AYRES



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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

ON A FAIR BEGGAR, by             Poem Explanation         Poet's Biography
First Line: Barefoot and ragged, with neglected hair
Last Line: And those fair locks shall pour down showers of gold.
Subject(s): Beauty; Begging & Beggars; Cophetua, King (legend); Love


BAREFOOT and ragged, with neglected hair,
She whom the Heavens at once made poor and fair,
With humble voice and moving words did stay,
To beg an alms of all who pass'd that way.

But thousands viewing her became her prize,
Willingly yielding to her conquering eyes,
And caught by her bright hairs, whilst careless she
Makes them pay homage to her poverty.

So mean a boon, said I, what can extort
From that fair mouth, where wanton Love to sport
Amidst the pearls and rubies we behold?
Nature on thee has all her treasures spread,
Do but incline thy rich and precious head,
And those fair locks shall pour down showers of gold.





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