Classic Poem

Couldst thou choose, what wouldst thou,
Babe on my breast,
Strife for fame and glory,
Dreaming that best?
'T is the life of an ocean wave,
Forever unrest.

A life of peace and quiet
In some dim land,
Where summer seas of azure
Wash the warm strand?
Such lives, like placid waters,
All stagnant stand.

A life of love and passion,
All strain and stress?
Age comes, when one is left
Chilled, comfortless,
Unwarmed by the remembrance
Of past caress.

Death, ere thou know life's anguish?
Yea, that is best!
Could I go with thee, dear,
Both of us blest;
But if that may not be,
Stay on my breast!