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1819–1891

ALADDIN

James Russell Lowell

When I was a beggarly boy And lived in a cellar damp, I had not a friend nor a toy, But I had Aladdin's lamp;

When I could not sleep for the cold, I had fire enough in my brain, And builded, with roofs of gold, My beautiful castles in Spain!

Since then I have toiled day and night, I have money and power good store, But I'd give all my lamps of silver bright For the one that is mine no more;

Take, Fortune, whatever you choose, You gave, and may snatch again; I have nothing‘ twould pain me to lose, For I own no more castles in Spain!

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ALADDIN · James Russell Lowell · Poetry Cove