THE CENTURY OF LIFE
THE PRAISES OF KNOWLEDGE
Knowledge is nobler beauty in a man
‘Than features: ’tis his hidden hoard of price; This the long roll of Masters first began;
Pleasure it brings, just fame and constant bliss, And is a helping friend in foreign lands, And is a very god with puissant hands. Knowledge, not wealth in great men is adored, Nor better than a beast the mind unstored.
COMPARISONS
Men cherish burning anger in their hearts, Yet look without to find if they have foes.
Who sweet forbearance has, requires no arts Of speech; persuading silently he goes.
Why fear the snake when in thy kindness bask Men evil, or a fire while kinsmen jar
Burning thy house! From heaven no medicines ask To heal a troubled mind, where true friends are.
Nor seek for ornaments, noble modest shame
Being with thee, nor for wealth when wisdom ’s by. Who needs a kingdom when his mind can claim
A golden realm in sweetest poetry?
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