Classic Poem

In the dark watches of the night
Reclined upon a purple bed,
Delicious dreams of import bright
The god of wine upon me shed.

Methought that I with flying feet
A band of beauteous nymphs pursued,
And hurrying on with rapture sweet
I gained upon the lovely crowd,

While youths as fair as Bacchus is
(The youthful god forever young)
Seeing but sharing not my bliss
Jeered at me as I rushed along.

A kiss I ask, but as I seem
Upon the verge of keen delight
Flies far from me the pleasant dream
And I awake — a hapless wight.

Then lonely, wretched, sad I strive
(My hopeful pleasure turned to pain)
The dear delusion to revive
By courting sleep's soft charms again.