Sonnet XVIII: With What Sharp Checks

 With what sharp checks I in myself am shent, 
When into Reason's audit I do go: 
And by just counts myself a bankrupt know 
Of all the goods, which heav'n to me hath lent: 

Unable quite to pay even Nature's rent, 
Which unto it by birthright I do owe: 
And, which is worse, no good excuse can show, 
But that my wealth I have most idly spend. 

My youth doth waste, my knowledge brings forth toys, 
My wit doth strive those passions to defend, 
Which for reward spoil it with vain annoys. 

I see my course to lose myself doth bend: 
I see and yet no greater sorrow take, 
Than that I lose no more for Stella's sake.

Form: Italian Sonnet Comments

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