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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

TO THE SAME [BENJAMIN RUDYERD] (2) by BEN JONSON

Poet Analysis

First Line: IF I WOULD WISH, FOR TRUTH, AND NOT FOR SHOW
Last Line: WHO PROV'ST, ALL THESE WERE, AND AGAIN MAY BE.
Subject(s): RUDYERD, SIR BENJAMIN (1572-1658);
If I would wish, for truth, and not for show,
The aged Saturn's age, and rites to know;
If I would strive to bring back times, and try
The world's pure gold, and wise simplicity;
If I would virtue set, as she was young,
And hear her speak with one, and her first tongue;
If holiest friendship, naked to the touch,
I would restore, and keep it ever such;
I need no other arts, but study thee:
Who prov'st, all these were, and again may be.



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