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1854–1900

Poem: Libertatis Sacra Fames

Oscar Wilde

Albeit nurtured in democracy, And liking best that state republican Where every man is Kinglike and no man Is crowned above his fellows, yet I see,

Spite of this modern fret for Liberty, Better the rule of One, whom all obey, Than to let clamorous demagogues betray Our freedom with the kiss of anarchy.

Wherefore I love them not whose hands profane Plant the red flag upon the piled-up street For no right cause, beneath whose ignorant reign Arts, Culture, Reverence, Honour, all things fade,

Save Treason and the dagger of her trade, Or Murder with his silent bloody feet.

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Poem: Libertatis Sacra Fames · Oscar Wilde · Poetry Cove