John Marston

Here you will find the Poem To Everlasting Oblivion of poet John Marston

To Everlasting Oblivion

THOU mighty gulf, insatiate cormorant, 
Deride me not, though I seem petulant 
To fall into thy chops. Let others pray 
Forever their fair poems flourish may. 
But as for me, hungry Oblivion, 
Devour me quick. Accept my orison, 
My earnest prayers which do importune thee, 
With gloomy shade of thy still empery 
To veil both me and my rude poesy. 
Far worthier lines in silence of thy state 
Do sleep securely, free from love or hate, 
From which this, living, ne'er can be exempt, 
But whilst it breathes will hate and fury tempt. 
Then close his eyes with thy all-dimming hand 
Which not right glorious actions can withstand. 
Peace, hateful tongues! I now in silence pace 
Unless some hound do wake me from my place. 
I with this sharp yet well-meant poesy 
Will sleep secure, right free from injury 
Of canker'd hate or rankest villany.