Gateway to the Classics: Oxford Book of English Verse, Part 2 by Arthur Quiller-Couch
 
Oxford Book of English Verse, Part 2 by  Arthur Quiller-Couch

The Sirens' Song

Steer, hither steer your wingéd pines,

All beaten mariners!

Here lie Love's undiscover'd mines,

A prey to passengers—

Perfumes far sweeter than the best

Which make the Phœnix' urn and nest.

Fear not your ships,

Nor any to oppose you save our lips;

But come on shore,

Where no joy dies till Love hath gotten more.


For swelling waves our panting breasts,

Where never storms arise,

Exchange, and be awhile our guests:

For stars gaze on our eyes.

The compass Love shall hourly sing,

And as he goes about the ring,

We will not miss

To tell each point he nameth with a kiss.

—Then come on shore,

Where no joy dies till Love hath gotten more.

— William Browne of Tavistock
1588-1643   


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