Classic Poem

A LIFE too great for folly
In a world too wise for wine
Is a life the saint or sage may love,
But I cannot boast it mine.

If all by law were sober,
And all by statute good,
I could not breathe the impeccable air —
And I would not if I could.

Nay, if denied for ever
All juice of grape or grain,
I'd leave this world to be destroyed
By water once again.