by Coleridge · Cluster: Satire of Society · Epigram · Satire
Abstract
A satirical epigram (after Lessing) on Rufa and her lap-dog, with a barbed twist on which is the dainty beast.
Connections
Motifs: Animals Themes & Concepts: Satire of Society, Grotesque Forms & Genres: Epigram, Satire
Testo integrale / Full text
Thy lap-dog, Rufa, is a dainty beast,
It don’t surprise me in the least
To see thee lick so dainty clean a beast.
But that so dainty clean a beast licks thee,
Yes — that surprises me.
First published in An. Anth., 1800. First collected P. and D. W.,
1877, ii. 164. Adapted from Lessing’s Sinngedicht No. 66. An die
Dorilis. ‘Dein Hündchen, Dorilis, ist zärtlich, tändelnd, rein.’