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1728–1774

EPITAPH ON THOMAS PARNELL

Oliver Goldsmith

THIS tomb, inscrib'd to gentle Parnell's name, May speak our gratitude, but not his fame. What heart but feels his sweetly-moral lay, That leads to truth through pleasure's flowery way!

Celestial themes confess'd his tuneful aid; And Heaven, that lent him genius, was repaid. Needless to him the tribute we bestow — The transitory breath of fame below:

More lasting rapture from his works shall rise, While Converts thank their poet in the skies.

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EPITAPH ON THOMAS PARNELL · Oliver Goldsmith · Poetry Cove