Disdain Returned

 He that loves a rosy cheek, 
Or a coral lip admires, 
Or from starlike eyes doth seek 
Fuel to maintain his fires; 
As old Time makes these decay, 
So his flames must waste away. 

But a smooth and steadfast mind, 
Gentle thoughts and calm desires, 
Hearts with equal love combined, 
Kindle never-dying fires. 
Where these are not, I despise 
Lovely cheeks, or lips, or eyes. 

No tears, Celia, now shall win 
My resolved heart to return; 
I have searched thy soul within, 
And find naught but pride and scorn; 
I have learned thy arts, and now 
Can disdain as much as thou. 
Some power, in my revenge convey 
That love to her I cast away.

Form: Lyric Comments

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Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace