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1852–1933

THE VALLEY OF VAIN VERSES

Henry Van Dyke

The grief that is but feigning, And weeps melodious tears Of delicate complaining From self-indulgent years;

The mirth that is but madness, And has no inward gladness Beneath its laughter straining, To capture thoughtless ears;

The love that is but passion Of amber-scented lust; The doubt that is but fashion; The faith that has no trust;

These Thamyris disperses, In the Valley of Vain Verses Below the Mount Parnassian,— And they crumble into dust.

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THE VALLEY OF VAIN VERSES · Henry Van Dyke · Poetry Cove