Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, ON DR. WOODFORD'S PARAPHRASE ON THE CANTICLES, by THOMAS FLATMAN


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

ON DR. WOODFORD'S PARAPHRASE ON THE CANTICLES, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: Well! Since it must be, so let it be
Last Line: Your wiser projects on eternity.
Subject(s): Translating & Interpreting; Woodford, Samuel (1636-1700)


I.

WELL! since it must be, so let it be,
For what do resolutions signify,
When we are urg'd to write by destiny?

II.

I had resolv'd, nay, and I almost swore,
My bedrid Muse should walk abroad no more:
Alas! 'tis more than time that I give o'er.

III.

In the recesses of a private breast
I thought to entertain your charming guest,
And never to have boasted of my feast.

IV.

But see, my friend, when through the world you go,
My lackey-verse must shadow-like pursue,
Thin and obscure, to make a foil for you.

V.

'Tis true, you cannot need my feeble praise,
A lasting monument to your name to raise,
Well known in Heav'n by your angelic lays.

VI.

There in indelible characters they are writ,
Where no pretended heights will easy sit,
But those of serious consecrated wit.

VII.

By immaterial defecated Love,
Your soul its heavenly origin does approve,
And in least dangerous raptures soars above.

VIII.

How could I wish, dear friend! unsaid agen
(For once I rank'd myself with tuneful men)
Whatever dropp'd from my unhallow'd pen!

IX.

The trifling rage of youthful heat once past,
Who is not troubled for his wit misplac'd!
All pleasant follies breed regret at last.

X.

While reverend Donne's and noble Herbert's flame
A glorious immortality shall claim,
In the most durable records of Fame,

XI.

Our modish rhymes, like culinary fire,
Unctuous and earthy, shall in smoke expire;
In odorous clouds your incense shall aspire.

XII.

Let th' Pagan-world your pious verse defy,
Yet shall they envy when they come to die,
Your wiser projects on eternity.





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