The Bas Bleu (1786) [ People / Practices ]
… at Athens known; Where SOCRATES unbending sat, With ALCIBIADES in chat; And PERICLES vouchsafed to mix Taste, wit, and mirth, with politics. Nor need I stop my tale to show, At least to readers such as you, How all that Rome esteem'd … vain; In vain to charm him you intend, Self is his object, aim, and end. Chill shade of that affected Peer, Who dreaded Mirth, come safely here! For here no vulgar joy effaces Thy rage for polish, ton, and graces. Cold Ceremony's leaden hand …
Bluestockings | Women | Greece
Anthology