Library of the World's Best Literature, Ancient and Modern — Volume 01
General
Library of the World's Best Literature, Ancient and Modern — Volume 01
Literature -- Collections
I passed some Time in the Contemplation of this wonderful Structure, and
the great Variety of Objects which it presented. My heart was filled
with a deep Melancholy to see several dropping unexpectedly in the midst
of Mirth and Jollity, and catching at every thing that stood by them to
save themselves. Some were looking up towards the Heavens in a
thoughtful Posture, and in the midst of a Speculation stumbled and fell
out of Sight. Multitudes were very busy in the Pursuit of Bubbles that
glittered in their Eyes and danced before them; but often when they
thought themselves within the reach of them their Footing failed and
down they sunk. In this Confusion of Objects, I observed some with
Scymetars in their Hands, and others with Urinals, who ran to and fro
upon the Bridge, thrusting several Persons on Trap-doors which did not
seem to lie in their way, and which they might have escaped had they not
been forced upon them.
The Genius seeing me indulge my self in this melancholy Prospect, told
me I had dwelt long enough upon it: Take thine Eyes off the Bridge, said
he, and tell me if thou yet seest any thing thou dost not comprehend.
Upon looking up, What mean, said I, those great Flights of Birds that
are perpetually hovering about the Bridge, and settling upon it from
time to time? I see Vultures, Harpyes, Ravens, Cormorants, and among
many other feather'd Creatures several little winged Boys, that perch in
great Numbers upon the middle Arches. These, said the Genius, are Envy,
Avarice, Superstition, Despair, Love, with the like Cares and Passions
that infest human Life.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Elsewhere in the archive
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account