Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, MOMUS, GOD OF LAUGHTER, by ELLA WHEELER WILCOX


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MOMUS, GOD OF LAUGHTER, by                 Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography
First Line: Though with gods the world is cumbered
Last Line: Hail to momus, happy boy.
Alternate Author Name(s): Wilson, Robert, Mrs.
Subject(s): Goddesses & Gods; Laughter; Mythology


Though with gods the world is cumbered,
Gods unnamed, and gods unnumbered,
Never god was known to be
Who had not his devotee.
So I dedicate to mine,
Here in verse, my temple-shrine.

'T is not Ares, -- mighty Mars,
Who can give success in wars.
'T is not Morpheus, who doth keep
Guard above us while we sleep,
'Tis not Venus, she whose duty
'Tis to give us love and beauty;
Hail to these, and others, after
Momus, gleesome god of laughter.

Quirinus would guard my health!
Plutus would insure me wealth
Mercury looks after trade,
Hera smiles on youth and maid.
All are kind, I own their worth,
After Momus, god of mirth.

Though Apollo, out of spite,
Hides away his face of light,
Though Minerva looks askance,
Deigning me no smiling glance,
Kings and queens may envy me
While I claim the god of glee.

Wisdom wearies, Love has wings --
Wealth makes burdens, Pleasure stings,
Glory proves a thorny crown --
So all gifts the gods throw down
Bring their pains and troubles after;
All save Momus, god of laughter.
He alone gives constant joy,
Hail to Momus, happy boy.





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