Classic Poem

Choose as thou wilt! the land — the main
The court, the camp, the mart, the grove,
Power, Glory, Pleasure, Wisdom, Gain,
Rank, Friendship, Wit, Fame, Beauty, Love —

Choose as thou wilt! since all may choose,
And win thy choice — all may be won.
Their fortune none but fools accuse
Who know not how her frowns to shun.

Choose as thou wilt! — but know whate'er
Thy choice may be — or thy success
All are but bubbles of the air
Deceitful forms of happiness!

Clouds that have ta'en a heavenly form
And heavenly hues and heavenly charms,
All that a mortal heart can warm —
All that escapes from mortal arms!