Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, SONNET: ON FAME (1), by JOHN KEATS


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SONNET: ON FAME (1), by                 Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography
First Line: Fame, like a wayward girl, will still be coy
Last Line: Then, if she likes it, she will follow you.
Subject(s): Fame; Reputation


FAME, like a wayward girl, will still be coy
To those who woo her with too slavish knees,
But makes surrender to some thoughtless boy,
And dotes the more upon a heart at ease;
She is a Gipsey, -- will not speak to those
Who have not learnt to be content without her;
A Jilt, whose ear was never whisper'd close,
Who thinks they scandal her who talk about her;
A very Gipsey is she, Nilus-born,
Sister-in-law to jealous Potiphar;
Ye love-sick Bards! repay her scorn for scorn;
Ye Artists lovelorn! madmen that ye are!
Make your best bow to her and bid adieu,
Then, if she likes it, she will follow you.





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