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1837–1909

II.

Algernon Charles Swinburne

Man, what art thou to speak and plead with me? What knowest thou of my workings, where and how What things I fashion? Nay, behold and see, Man, what art thou?

Thy fruits of life, and blossoms of thy bough, What are they but my seedlings? Earth and sea Bear nought but when I breathe on it must bow. Bow thou too down before me: though thou be

Great, all the pride shall fade from off thy brow, When Time and strong Oblivion ask of thee, Man, what art thou?

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II. · Algernon Charles Swinburne · Poetry Cove