On Conversation (1782) [ Concepts ]
… his undissembling heart, Abhors constraint, and dares not feign a zeal, Or seem to boast a fire, he does not feel. The song of Sion is a tasteless thing, Unless, when rising on a joyful wing, The soul can mix with the celestial bands, And … Revived, are hastening into fresh repute, And gods and goddesses, discarded long, Like useless lumber or a stroller's song, Are bringing into vogue their heathen train, And Jupiter bids fair to rule again; That certain feasts are … gentle sounds it seems as it complain'd Of the rude injuries it late sustain'd, Till, tuned at length to some immortal song, It sounds Jehovah's name, and pours his praise along. … "But Conversation, choose what theme we may, And chiefly …
Conversation | Crime
Anthology