Classic Poem

Lord of Hearts benignly callous
Come Insensibility,
Stop the streams which feeling hallows
Smother each impassioned sigh.

Let this bosom idly beating
Task at length a moment's peace!
Passion's tide at length retreating
Bid the furious tempest cease.

O'er my path once sweetly smiling
Crowned with flowers, unseen his dart,
Love with blushes soft beguiling
Seized my fascinated heart.

Soon the traitor rudely rending
From my brow the rosy crown,
Pityless of storms impending
Drove me forth to Fate's dark frown

Harassed, struggling, faint and weary
Long kind Hope reluctant clung,
Shudd'ring at my prospects dreary
All her brilliant chords unstrung.

Thus the quivering lamp expiring
Sudden shines with trembling beams
Extinguished now, now life desiring
Shoots forth momentary gleams.

Mute her voice, and dropt her lyre
Now at last she sinks opprest,
Day's bright beams with her retire
O'er me clouds and darkness rest.

Joy and Hope and Love and Pleasure!
Here I bid you all adieu!
Thee sweet Peace my last best treasure
All my wishes now pursue.

O'er my senses softly stealing
Blest Indifference kindly come!
From this agony of feeling
Hide me in thy tranquil gloom.

Banish each bright form delusive,
From my aching eyes remove,
Fancy's torch with glare obtrusive
Visions of seductive Love! —