Wine, No. 57

While life's April blossom blew, What I willed I then might do, Lust and law seemed comrades true. As I listed, unresisted, Hither, thither, could I play, And my wanton flesh obey.

When life's autumn days decline, Thus to live, a libertine, Fancy-free as thoughts incline, Manhood's older age and colder Now forbids; removes, destroys All those ways of wonted joys.

Age with admonition wise Thus doth counsel and advise, While her voice within me cries: "For repenting and relenting There is room; forgiveness falls On all contrite prodigals!"

I will seek a better mind; Change, correct, and leave behind What I did with purpose blind: From vice sever, with endeavour Yield my soul to serious things, Seek the joy that virtue brings.