Classic Poem

In this terrestrial fleeting state,
This fluctuating scene,
Let me the due advantage make,
Instructions ever glean.

From Folly and the snares of Art,
Duplicity despise;
Learn the true worth of modest sense,
Esteem the good and wise.

By Vanity and Tyrant Pride,
Be taught to hate vain show;
Resign myself to Reason's pow'r,
With genuine Virtue glow.

From Av'rice and her sordid train,
Weigh the true use of Pelf;
Dilate my heart, and teach my soul
To look beyond itself.

From Rashness, gain the glorious art,
To know in what consists,
The pow'r invincible to gain,
Which all attacks resists.

May base Ingratitude, and Guilt,
Caprice, and proud disdain,
Inspire my heart with purpose fix'd,
The better path to gain.

From those who seem exempt from Care,
And sickle Fortune's pow'r,
Be warn'd with confidence to hope
Beyond the present hour.

Pursuing thus the thorny maze,
Sure profit hence shall find;
From others weakness, gather strength
To fortify my mind!