Astrophil and Stella
Sonnet 18
With what sharp checks I in myself am shent
When into reason's audit I do go,
And by just counts my self a bankrupt know
Of all those goods which heaven to me hath lent;
Unable quite to pay even nature's rent,
Which unto it by birthright I do owe;
And, which is worse, no good excuse can show,
But that my wealth I have most idly spent!
My youth doth waste, my knowledge brings forth toys,
My wit doth strive those passions to defend,
Which, for reward, spoil it with vain annoys.
I see, my course to lose myself doth bend;
I see: and yet no greater sorrow take
Than that I lose no more for Stella's sake.
Sir Philip Sidney
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