Page:An Essay on Criticism - Pope (1711).pdf/28

 But true Expression, like th' unchanging Sun, Clears, and improves whate'er it shines upon, It gilds all Objects, but it alters none. Expression is the Dress of Thought, and still Appears more decent as more suitable; A vile Conceit in pompous Style exprest, Is like a Clown in regal Purple drest; For diff'rent Styles with diff'rent Subjects sort, As several Garbs with Country, Town, and Court. Some by Old Words to Fame have made Pretence; Ancients in Phrase, meer Moderns in their Sense! Such labour'd Nothings, in so strange a Style, Amaze th'unlearn'd, and make the Learned Smile. Unlucky, as Fungoso in the Play, These Sparks with aukward Vanity display What the Fine Gentleman wore Yesterday! And but so mimick ancient Wits at best, As Apes our Grandsires in their Doublets drest.