Amores

Ovid

Ovid. Ovid's Art of Love (in three Books), the Remedy of Love, the Art of Beauty, the Court of Love, the History of Love, and Amours. Dryden, John, et al., translator. New York: Calvin Blanchard, 1855.

  1. I rush'd, resolv'd her golden locks to tear,
  2. And with mad violence disrobe the fair;
  3. But as I viewed her face, th' extended hand
  4. Shrunk back, nor hearken'd to the harsh command.
  5. Others protection seek by dint of arms,
  6. Her only safeguard was—her wondrous charms.
  7. I, who but late look'd insolently brave,
  8. Fell from my height, and couch'd a suppliant slave:
  9. I rav'd no longer at another's bliss,
  10. But begg'd the transport of as sweet a kiss.
  11. Smiling she said, " How grateful thy request!
  12. If e'er my kisses please thee, take the best."
  13. Oh, with what gust as from her soul they came!
  14. Such might melt Jove, and stop the vengeful flame;
  15. I fear'd my rival too enjoy'd the same.
  16. These, better than from me she learn'd I thought,
  17. Something taught new, alas! I wish'd untaught;
  18. What most gave pleasure, that now stings the most;
  19. Why were our darting tongues entirely lost?
  20. Nor fret I thou in kissing shouldst excel,