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SONG (11), by                 Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography
First Line: Phyllis, be gentler, I advise
Last Line: And never know the joy.
Alternate Author Name(s): Rochester, 2d Earl Of
Subject(s): Carpe Diem


Phyllis, be gentler, I advise;
Make up for time misspent:
When beauty on its deathbed lies,
'Tis high time to repent.

Such is the malice of your fate:
That makes you old so soon,
Your pleasure ever comes too late,
How early e'er begun.

Think what a wretched thing is she
Whose stars contrive, in spite,
The morning of her love should be
Her fading beauty's night.

Then, if to make your ruin more,
You'll peevishly be coy,
Die with the scandal of a whore
And never know the joy.





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