by Coleridge · Cluster: Satire of Society · Epigram · Satire
Abstract
A cluster of epigrams (after Lessing) on a big-nosed man, on avoiding marriage, and on a liar who deceives only by telling the truth.
Connections
Themes & Concepts: Satire of Society, Deception, Paradox, Marriage and Fidelity Forms & Genres: Epigram, Satire
Testo integrale / Full text
I fancy whenever I spy Nosy
Ross,
More great than a Lion is Rhy nose
ros.
1799. Now first published from an MS.
Bob now resolves on marriage schemes to trample,
And now he’ll have a wife all in a trice.
Must I advise — Pursue thy dad’s example
And marry not. — There, heed now my advice.
Imitated from Lessing’s ‘Bald willst du, Trill, und bald willst du dich
nicht beweiben.’ Sinngedicht No. 93. Now first published from an MS.
Say what you will, Ingenious Youth!
You’ll find me neither Dupe nor Dunce:
Once you deceived me — only once,
‘Twas then when you told me the Truth.
1799. First published from an MS. in 1893. Adapted from Lessing’s
Sinngedicht No. 45. An einen Lügner. ‘Du magst so oft, so fein, als
dir nur möglich, lügen.’
[ANOTHER VERSION]
If the guilt of all lying consists in deceit,
Lie on—’tis your duty, sweet youth!
For believe me, then only we find you a cheat
When you cunningly tell us the truth.
1800. First published in Annual Anthology, 1800. First collected P.
and D. W., 1877, ii. 163.