Love

The Shepherd's Resolution in Love

by Thomas Watson c. 1555–1592

From England's Helicon (1600), ed. A. H. Bullen (1887)

Love

If Jove himself be subject unto Love,
And range the woods to find a mortal prey;
If Neptune from the seas himself remove.
And seek on sands with earthly wights to play:
Then may I love my shepherdess by right.
Who fair excels each other mortal wight?

If Pluto could by Love be drawn from hell
To yield himself a silly virgin's thrall;
If Phoebus could vouchsafe on earth to dwell,
To win a rustic maid unto his call:
Then how much more should I adore the sight
Of her in whom the heavens themselves delight?

If country Fan might follow nymphs in chase.
And yet through Love remain devoid of blame;
If satyrs were excused for seeking grace
To joy the fruits of any mortal dame;
My shepherdess, why should not I love still,
On whom nor gods nor men can gaze their fill?

✦ ✦ ✦

Signed "Thom. Watson" in England's Helicon.

MLA

Watson, Thomas. “The Shepherd's Resolution in Love.” Poetry Codex, poetrycodex.com/poem/watson_t16/3/.

Chicago

Watson, Thomas. “The Shepherd's Resolution in Love.” Poetry Codex. https://poetrycodex.com/poem/watson_t16/3/.

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