John Gay ( 10 of 59 )
Life is a jest; and all things show it. I thought so once; but now I know it.
Life is a jest; and all things show it. I thought so once; but now I know it.
By outward show let's not be cheated;
An ass should like an ass be treated.
By outward show let's not be cheated;
An ass should like an ass be treated.
How bless'd, how envied, were our life,
Could we but scape the poulterer's knife!
But man, curs'd read more
How bless'd, how envied, were our life,
Could we but scape the poulterer's knife!
But man, curs'd man, on Turkeys preys,
And Christmas shortens all our days:
Sometimes with oysters we combine,
Sometimes assist the savory chine;
From the low peasant to the lord,
The Turkey smokes on every board.
From wine what sudden friendship springs?
From wine what sudden friendship springs?
Now Cynthia, named fair regent of the night.
Now Cynthia, named fair regent of the night.
Of all the fools that pride can boast,
A Coxcomb claims distinction most.
Of all the fools that pride can boast,
A Coxcomb claims distinction most.
Life is a jest; and all things show it.
I thought so once; but now I know it.
Life is a jest; and all things show it.
I thought so once; but now I know it.
Why is the hearse with scutcheons blazon'd round,
And with the nodding plume of ostrich crown'd?
No; read more
Why is the hearse with scutcheons blazon'd round,
And with the nodding plume of ostrich crown'd?
No; the dead know it not, nor profit gain;
It only serves to prove the living vain.
In every rank, or great or small,
'Tis industry supports us all.
In every rank, or great or small,
'Tis industry supports us all.
