Classic Poem

ODE XV. HAPPY LIFE.

The wealth of Gyges I despise;
Gems are useless glit'ring toys:
Gold I leave, and such vain things,
To the low aim and pride of kings.
Let my hair with unguents flow,
With rosy garlands crown my brow;
The present moment I enjoy,
Doom'd in the next perhaps to die.
Then, while the hour serenely shines
Toss the gay die, and quaff thy wines;
But ever, in the genial hour
To Bacchus the libation pour,
Lest Death in wrath approach, and cry,
" Man! — taste no more the cup of joy. "