RATHER PESSIMISTIC SONNET

Mit der Dummheit kämpfen die Götter selbst vergebens
FRIEDRICH SCHILLER

did the trained eye of the ruffian perhaps discern the harmony of the rose trees? no — no — no amount of moralizing will help us make a better world

hope — always hope — that among people — who are ruined by that terrible “ease” — you’ll encounter gentle souls with manners imbued with kindness — a desire for courtesy — calmness

perhaps not many — perhaps if you’re unlucky: none — then try yourself to become better in such a way as to bring a certain balance

let those around you rave that they’re doing something you yourself reflect — now at last — with what sweet serenity you await the hour when you’ll lie on your death bed of solace