On Conversation (1782) [ Concepts ]
… No longer fruitful, and no longer green; The sapless wood, divested of the bark, Grows fungous, and takes fire at every spark. Oaths terminate, as Paul observes, all strife— Some men have surely then a peaceful life! Whatever subject occupy … judgment creep and feel their way, The positive pronounce without dismay; Their want of light and intellect supplied By sparks absurdity strikes out of pride. Without the means of knowing right from wrong, They always are decisive, clear, … conception aids the birth. If this be plain, 'tis plainly understood, What uses of his boon the Giver would. The mind despatch'd upon her busy toil, Should range where Providence has bless'd the soil; Visiting every flower with labour meet, …
Conversation | Crime
Anthology