by Coleridge · Cluster: Satire of Society · Epigram · Satire
Abstract
A witty epigram chiding a beautiful woman for vanity, arguing that self-consciousness of her gifts impoverishes her charm; a satire of female pride and self-love.
Connections
Themes & Concepts: Pride, Beauty, Satire of Society, Paradox Forms & Genres: Epigram
Testo integrale / Full text
Didst thou think less of thy dear self
Far more would others think of thee!
Sweet Anne! the knowledge of thy wealth
Reduces thee to poverty.
Boon Nature gave wit, beauty, health,
On thee as on her darling pitching;
Couldst thou forget thou’rt thus enrich’d
That moment would’st thou become rich in!
And wert thou not so self-bewitch’d,
Sweet Anne! thou wert, indeed, bewitching.
First published in Morning Post, Sept. 23 1802. Included in The
Friend, No. 12, Nov. 9, 1809.