Page:A study of Ben Jonson (IA studyofbenjonson00swinrich).pdf/111

 with seeing.' And in 'the admirable Epode,' as Gifford calls it, which concludes Ben Jonson's contributions to Love's Martyr, though there is remarkable energy of expression, the irregularity and inequality of style are at least as conspicuous as the occasional vigour and the casual felicity of phrase. But if all were as good as the best passages this early poem of Jonson's would undoubtedly be very good indeed. Take for instance the description or definition of true love:

That is an essence far more gentle, fine, Pure, perfect, nay divine; It is a golden chain let down from heaven, Whose links are bright and even, That falls like sleep on lovers.

Again:

O, who is he that in this peace enjoys The elixir of all joys, (A form more fresh than are the Eden bowers And lasting as her flowers; Richer than time, and as time's virtue rare, Sober as saddest care, A fixed thought, an eye untaught to glance;) Who, blest with such high chance, Would at suggestion of a steep desire Cast himself from the spire Of all his happiness?