17.12.2012, 13:30
Is there ought more weak and odious ev'n
Than the record of learned history ?
How unquestion'd genius copied, see
The beauty clouded of the purest heav'n !
It seems invention, or by error giv'n,
Not as if grave reality oould claim
What yields praise to the imitated fame,
From the indulger miserably riv'n ;
It is for self-approval all will strive,
How, if you know that 'tis another's plume
The honour to your profess'd work will give,
E'en tho' the critic's frown withhold its gloom?
Presenting virtue's prototype will live —
Washington knew Epicurus burst the slave's tomb.
Than the record of learned history ?
How unquestion'd genius copied, see
The beauty clouded of the purest heav'n !
It seems invention, or by error giv'n,
Not as if grave reality oould claim
What yields praise to the imitated fame,
From the indulger miserably riv'n ;
It is for self-approval all will strive,
How, if you know that 'tis another's plume
The honour to your profess'd work will give,
E'en tho' the critic's frown withhold its gloom?
Presenting virtue's prototype will live —
Washington knew Epicurus burst the slave's tomb.