George Wither Quotes (1588-1667)

“When with a serious musing I behold The graceful and obsequious marigold, How duly every morning she displays Her open breast, when Titan spreads his rays.”

“I loved a lass, a fair one, As fair as e'er was seen; She was indeed a rare one, Another Sheba queen: But, fool as then I was, I thought she loved me too: But now, alas! she's left me, Falero, lero, loo!”

“Amarillis I did woo, And I courted Phillis too; Daphne, for her love, I chose; Cloris, for that damask rose In her cheek, I held as dear; Yea, a thousand liked well near. And, in love with all together, Fearèd the enjoying either; ’Cause to be of one possest, Barred the hope of all the rest.”

“Hence away, you Sirens, leave me,   And unclasp your wanton arms; Sug’red words shall ne’er deceive me   Though you prove a thousand charms.       Fie, fie, forbear;       No common snare   Could ever my affection chain;       Your painted baits       And poor deceits   Are all bestowed on me in vain.”

“Now gentle sleep hath closèd up those eyes, Which waking kept my boldest thoughts in awe, And free access unto that sweet lip lies From whence I long the rosy breath to draw. Methinks no wrong it were if I should steal, From those two melting rubies, one poor kiss. None sees the theft that would the thief reveal, Nor rob I her of aught which she can miss. Nay, should I twenty kisses take away, There would be little sign I had done so. Why then should I this robbery delay? Oh, she may wake, and therewith angry grow.   Well, if she do, I’ll back restore that one,   And twenty hundred thousand more for loan.”