Classic Poem

Salve Senescentem

Saadi's poem on Old Age

Now is the time when weakness comes, — & strength goes
The magic of sweet words — I lose
The harvest wind cuts keen: the tender sheen and shade
And pink & purple light upon thy garland fade
To my foot fails the power — of manly stride in streets;
Happy he who soonest to his orchard hut — retreats.
Saadi's whole power lies — in sweet words
Keep this all the rest may go to beast & birds
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