Classic Poem

Go hence instructed from this early urn,
Wise as you weep, and better as you mourn;
This urn, where titles, fortune, youth repose,
How vain the fleeting good that life bestows!
Learn age, when now it can no more supply,
To quit the burden, and consent to die;
Secure, the truly virtuous never tell
How long the part was acted, but how well:
Youth, stand convicted of each foolish claim,
Each daring wish of lengthen'd life and fame;
Thy life a moment, and thy fame a breath,
The natural end, oblivion and death;
Hear then this solemn truth, obey its call,
Submiss adore, for this is mankind's all.