Thomas Gray(1716–1771)
Sonnet (On the Death of Mr. Richard West)
On the Death of Mr. RichardWest8
In vain to me the smiling mornings shine,
And reddening Phoebus 0 lifts his golden fire;the sun
The birds in vain their amorous descant join,harmonize
Or cheerful fields resume their green attire;
These ears, alas! for other notes repine,
A different object do these eyes require;ask for
My lonely anguish melts no heart but mine,
And in my breast the imperfect joys expire.
Yet morning smiles the busy race to cheer,
And newborn pleasure brings to happier men;
The fields to all their wonted 0 tribute bear;
To warm their little loves the birds complain:9
I fruitless mourn to him that cannot hear,
And weep the more, because I weep in vain.
1775