Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, THE DEFIANCE, by APHRA BEHN


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

THE DEFIANCE, by                 Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography
First Line: By heaven 'tis false, I am not vain
Last Line: You have mistook the jest.
Alternate Author Name(s): Astraea; Behn, Afara; Behn, Apharra; Amis, Ayfara
Subject(s): Love; Quarrels; Arguments; Disagreements


By Heaven 'tis false, I am not vain;
And rather would the subject be
Of your indifference, or disdain,
Than wit or raillery.
Take back the trifling praise you give,
And pass it on some other fool,
Who may the injuring wit believe,
That turns her into ridicule.
Tell her, she's witty, fair, and gay,
With all the charms that can subdue:
Perhaps she'll credit what you say;
But curse me if I do.
If your diversion you design,
On my good-nature you have prest:
Or if you do intend it mine,
You have mistook the jest.






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