Sir Guy the Crusader
July 6, 2023Said I to Myself, Said I
July 6, 2023Sans Souci
I cannot tell what this love may be
That cometh to all but not to me.
It cannot be kind as they’d imply,
Or why do these gentle ladies sigh?
It cannot be joy and rapture deep,
Or why do these gentle ladies weep?
It cannot be blissful, as ’tis said,
Or why are their eyes so wondrous red?
If love is a thorn, they show no wit
Who foolishly hug and foster it.
If love is a weed, how simple they
Who gather and gather it, day by day!
If love is a nettle that makes you smart,
Why do you wear it next your heart?
And if it be neither of these, say I,
Why do you sit and sob and sigh?
W.S. Gilbert
W.S. Gilbert (1836-1911) was an English playwright, librettist, and poet who is best known for his collaborations with composer Arthur Sullivan. Gilbert's most famous works include the comic operas "H.M.S. Pinafore," "The Pirates of Penzance," and "The Mikado." His poetry often dealt with themes of social criticism and satire.