Go Back To Antique Ages, If Thine Eyes

Composed 1827.--Published 1827

One of the "Poems dedicated to National Independence and Liberty."--ED.

Go back to antique ages, if thine eyes The genuine mien and character would trace Of the rash Spirit that still holds her place, Prompting the world's audacious vanities! Go back, and see the Tower of Babel rise; The pyramid extend its monstrous base, For some Aspirant of our short-lived race, Anxious an aery name to immortalize. There, too, ere wiles and politic dispute Gave specious colouring to aim and act, See the first mighty Hunter leave the brute-- To chase mankind, with men in armies packed For his field-pastime high and absolute, While, to dislodge his game, cities are sacked!