Robert Greene (1560-1592)
Sweet are the thoughts that savour of content
1Sweet are the thoughts that savour of content;
2 The quiet mind is richer than a crown;
3Sweet are the nights in careless slumber spent;
4 The poor estate scorns fortune's angry frown:
5Such sweet content, such minds, such sleep, such bliss,
6Beggars enjoy, when princes oft do miss.
7The homely house that harbours quiet rest;
8 The cottage that affords no pride nor care;
9The mean that 'grees with country music best;
10 The sweet consort of mirth and music's fare;
11Obscured life sets down a type of bliss:
12A mind content both crown and kingdom is.
Notes
1] Sung by Maesia.
Online text copyright © 2009, Ian Lancashire (the Department of English) and the University of Toronto.
Published by the Web Development Group, Information Technology Services, University of Toronto Libraries.
Original text: Robert Greene, Greenes Farewell to Folly (W. White, 1617). STC 12242.
First publication date:
1591
RPO poem editor: F. D. Hoeniger
RP edition: 3RP 1.148.
Recent editing: 2:2002/4/24
Rhyme: ababcc
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