Classic Poem

Stretched on tender leaves of myrtle,
And on fragrant flowers of lotus,
I desire at ease to revel.
Let fair Eros with his tunic
Girded round his shoulders serve me
With red wine in foaming goblets.
Mortal life from mortals passes
Swift as chariot wheels revolving;
Soon at best the grave will hold us,
Soon our bones dissolve to dry dust.
What availeth rich libation
Outpoured for a vain eidolon?
While I live, of wine and perfume
Grant me plenty, and with roses
Crown my head; in all her beauty
Give unto my arms my sweetheart.
Ere I join the ranks of shades that
Dwell in Pluto's gloomy kingdom
I would make dark care evanish.