Ask not—what does it matter—
How long we're going to live;
The fortune-teller's patter
Ask not. What does it matter
If Jove has years to scatter
Or only one to give? …
Ask not. What does it matter
How long we're going to live!

Oh friend, trust no to-morrow,
But seize the flying present.
Would you escape all sorrow,
Oh friend? Trust no to-morrow!
Drink deep, and do not borrow
One thought that isn't pleasant.
Oh friend, trust no to-morrow,
But seize the flying present.