Classic Poem

I.

Oft when the child in wanton play
Exerts his little powers,
And busy, trifling, toils away
In sports the circling hours;

II.

We smile to see his infant mind
So eager, so intent;
But growing years new follies find,
As much on trifles bent.

III.

Youth has its toys, when pleasure's charms
The fond pursuit invite:
But pleasure mocks the extended arms;
Vain shadow of delight!

IV.

What are the joys of riper age?
By time is folly cur'd?
No, trifles still the heart engage,
And vanity matur'd.

V.

If glittering riches tempt the eyes,
An envy'd valu'd store;
Thus children shells and counters prize,
And hoard and wish for more.

VI.

Or if aspiring same employs
The eager, gazing train;
The paper-kite of sportive boys,
Is not more light and vain.

VII.

Unsatisfy'd, and tir'd at last,
We must resign our breath,
(Life's empty cares and follies past,)
And evening close in death.

VIII.

Thus children weary of their play,
With fretfulness opprest,
Throw all their little toys away,
And gently sink to rest.

IX.

Happy the mind, by heaven inspir'd
To scorn earth's empty toys;
And with divine ambition fir'd,
Pursue sublimer joys!

X.

Then, when the cares of life are o'er,
The parting soul shall rise,
And scenes of happiness explore,
Immortal in the skies.