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| Saratoga 1 | 25 |
7
[Parallel Phrase Construction, No Word Repetition, Similar] clamorous girls boisterous boys
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+18= 25
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It was the opening spring-time of the year, When captives struggle most to break their chains, And brooks let loose, and swelling buds, appear, And youthful blood seems starting from the veins, When Henry Mildmay, in his breakfast hall, Had press'd good morrow on each daughter's lip, And, seated at the board, his children all, By concert, urg'd him for a summer trip. "One at a time, for pity's sake, my dears," Half laughing, half provok'd, at length he said, "This babylonish din about my ears Confounds my brain, and nearly splits my head." And well might Henry of the rout complain That broke the comfort of his morning meal; For tongues, as wild as colts that spurn the rein, Maintain'd, in loud debate, a ceaseless peal. Three clamorous girls, as many boisterous boys, All straining at their topmost voice to speak, In ev'ry tone, from childhood's piping noise To incipient manhood's mingled growl and squeak, With two cag'd songsters of Canary's brood, Both emulous to join their thrilling strains--- All this might well provoke the gentlest mood, And raise a tumult in the coolest brains. "Why should you wish," continued he, "to roam, In fancied pleasure's quest, the country round, And leave the solid comforts of your home, Where all that reason can desire is found? 'Tis not for health impair'd, or hearts depress'd, Or spirits burden'd by a load of care Your minds require no tone-restoring rest, Your bodies need no change of scene or air. This lawn, these trees and shrubs, your senses cheer When summer heats prevail, and close in view A noble city rises; so that here You may enjoy the town and country too." "Oh dear papa," cried Kate, the eldest child, "Indeed, indeed, you are mistaken quite; We are sick to death of home, and almost wild Of somewhat else on earth to get a sight. How often on your accents have we hung When of your youth's adventures you have told; And why should not we store our minds, while young, With things of which to think and speak when old? Why should we dose at home, when all the world, With former times compar'd, seems rous'd from sleep; In steamboats dashing, or in rail-cars hurl'd, Or in swift vessels bounding o'er the deep? How would it make our snail-pac'd fathers stare To see the rate at which we go; and soon, I trust, we shall ascend the fields of air, And make our yearly visits to the moon"--- "Yes, to the paradise of fools," cried he, "This gadding generation's proper place. I do protest it makes me mad to see The restless rambling of the present race. Now, rough mechanics leave their work undone, And, with pert milliners and prentice youth, To some gay, throng'd resort away they run, To cure dyspepsia or ennui, forsooth! That idle, pamper'd wealth should gladly haste To try the traveller's miseries, may be right: The sickly palate needs some pungent taste To cure the nausea that mere sweets excite. Nor would I honor from the man withhold Whom searching science bids to distant shores; Who, to extend her empire, constant, bold, The works of Nature and of Art explores. Much pleasure, too, there is in change of scene, When streams glide smoothly, and the skies are bright; The towering mountains and the valleys green, Impress the thoughtful mind with pure delight. But, that the highest pleasures which we know In all these idle jaunts, I will maintain, Is hope that lures us when at first we go, And heartfelt joy at coming home again." "Why dearest father, sure your reasoning's scope But tends your very purpose to destroy; What happier life than one led on by hope, And which, at last, concludes with heartfelt joy?" "Poh, poh, what nonsense!" was the sole reply That to this brisk retort her father made, With half a smile, and twinkle of the eye That spoke---"You are a darling saucy jade." When dear-lov'd daughters, for some trivial prize, Against a widow'd father's voice contend, How fierce soe'er the strife may seem to rise, All know in whose behalf it soon will end. The promise worded in a doubtful guise,--- "Well, well, soon as the season comes, we'll see"--- Brought instant pleasure's lightning to their eyes, And fill'd each bounding heart with hopeful glee. At length, that all should go, it was agree'd; Though Henry knew full well the weighty charge 'Twould be, on purse and patience both, to lead Afar from home a troop so wild and large. But all their pleasure would be turn'd to pain, If one or more, selected from the rest, Were doom'd, all sad and quiet, to remain, While they with constant change and chance were blest. For this was all they wish'd, nor did they care If they went North or South, or East or West; And gladly left their father to declare Which course he deem'd the pleasantest and best. And soon, without a murmur, 'twas resolv'd The noble Hudson's waters to ascend, When vernal clouds and damps should be dissolv'd And summer's balmy breath their voyage befriend. Fair cloudless day-spring of our early youth! How seem we then to think 'twill ne'er be night! How ev'ry fancied form we take for truth! How all the distance gleams with roseate light! Nor let foreboding Prudence sigh with pain To see the dangers of youth's rash career, Nor grieve that brightest hopes may beam in vain, Soon to be quench'd in disappointment's tear. In bounteous Nature's works we ever see Apparent waste, and fruitless efforts find: How many a blossom of the goodliest tree Is idly scatter'd by the wanton wind! And are these fruitless flowers abortive quite? Has Nature bid them bloom and fall in vain? No; ere they perish, they impart delight; And plenteous fruits in embryo still remain. If dearest hopes that fill the youthful mind, And joys of fairest promise, end in gloom, Yet still, successive hopes we ever find, And other joys, upspringing in their room. No, let not frigid age regard with scorn The youthful spirit's warm outbreakings wild: How many a hero to the world is born Whose deeds are but the reckless darings of a child! |
| Saratoga 2 | 34 |
9
[Repeated Word - Simple Repetition] Learn, learn
[Repeated Word - Simple Repetition]
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+25= 34
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The sun had reach'd, at length, his northern goal; Fierce wintry storms were chang'd to summer showers; Soft zephyrs through the rustling foliage stole; And dews of evening cheer'd the drooping flowers. The day was fix'd on when they should depart; And all their buoyant spirits were alive, Like high-bred coursers straining on the start, Distracted for the moment to arrive. All their equipments had the young folk made; And gather'd such a vast and varied store As would suffice a merchant for his trade, Or fit them all the world to travel o'er. "Young travellers," said their father, "all are so: Learn, learn, betimes, my children, to beware Of grasping much, while through this world you go; You only gain embarrassment and care. Believe me, 'twill require your keenest looks To guard the smallest parcel you may need: Then leave your extra wardrobes, and your books, Scarce one of which you'll have the time to read." Too happy were their spirits, to complain; And 'twas agreed that many a coat and vest And well-fill'd trunk and basket should remain, And ev'ry bandbox too, the traveller's pest. To Charles, the eldest son, it was assign'd To watch the baggage; he was strong and large; And Kate, with all her rattling, sweet and kind, Had little Sue and Meg beneath her charge. William and John were of that age when boys Are rude in mind and awkward in their forms; When love of fun, of playful strife and noise, Seems the one passion which their bosom warms. The long expected day arriv'd at last. The oppressive atmosphere was damp and warm. The horison, in the West, was overcast. The sky foretold an evening thunder storm. Their father said the jaunt should be deferr'd Until the storm was o'er and skies were clear; And, of his children's murmurs, not a word, To swerve him from his purpose, would he hear: He thought, in quest of pleasure, 'twas absurd To rush on scenes of peril and of fear. Not so the youthful troop; to them, delay Of promis'd pleasure was a serious pain: No threaten'd danger could have stopp'd their way: They look'd on distant trouble with disdain. But, long ere night, the boded storm growl'd hoarse; Still gathering rage, more threat'ning and more loud. The southern breeze, that strove to stay its course, To fury fann'dthe dense and lurid cloud--- "Down with the windows, run, here comes the gust, Quick, quick, the wind has veer'd---See! what a flash!" Scarce Henry spoke, when came the smothering dust, A torrent next, and thunder, crash on crash: No interval between the light and sound; So sharp and near was ev'ry awful stroke. From cloud to cloud the echoes roll'd around, And, far off, into angry murmurs broke. Good Henry, with a look devoid of fear, His children, from the walls and windows stay'd; Yet taught them not to cower at danger near, But gaze upon the lightning as it play'd. 'Tis well that violence soon spends its power; And well that we forget our fear and pain. The storm that rag'd was but a summer-shower; And all, ere long, was peace and joy again. The birds sang out; the setting sun was bright; The diamond rain-drops glitter'd on the green; The clouds were stain'd with gorgeous tints of light; A lofty rainbow crown'd the magic scene. The morn succeeding shone forth heav'nly fair: The western breeze was cool, but gently blew. Some pearl-bright clouds sailed softly, through the air, And made more deep the deep cerulean hue. None can describe the bustle, noise and rout, The various sounds from ev'ry throat that pour'd, Till fairly for the steamer they'd set out, And, bag and baggage, all were safe aboard. "We're off at length," exclaim'd the joyous band; For now the steamer ceas'd its hissing roar; The paddles slowly plash'd, on either hand, To draw the vessel gently from the shore. And now the steam breath'd out in greater force; The gallant boat was fairly under way; In majesty she shap'd her rapid course--- Were ever folk so happy and so gay! Dense with a living mass the vessel teem'd; In search of pleasure, some, and some, of health; Maids who of love and matrimony dream'd, And speculators keen, in haste for wealth; Old men smooth shorn; lads with long beards and rough; Rich men ill clad, and poor ones smart and clean; True honest men, with looks and language gruff; And rogues with speeches soft, and smiles between. Some woman too would catch the ear and eye, Striving, with might and main, her brat to quiet, Who paid its mother's scolding lullaby With kicks and jerks and still a louder riot. The smiling maids, in flower-lin'd bonnets drest, Seem'd, to the careless gaze, all fair alike: No one, at first, was likely to arrest The wand'ring eye, or transient view to strike. So, clust'ring cherries on the tree appear, At distance seen, all ripe, and plump, and sound; 'Tis not till gather'd, and examin'd near, That many a canker'd blemish may be found. |
| Saratoga 3 | 44 |
16
[Initial Pivot Word - other] oft were heard oft appear'd
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+28= 44
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Long, on the deck, the living chaos stirr'd, Before each element could find its place; While unexpected greetings oft were heard, And oft appear'd some unexpected face. With much-ado, for Henry and his Kate A place to seat themselves, at length, was found. The rest, with wonder and with joy elate, At ev'ry novel sight, came clust'ring round. Kate lov'd to gaze on earth, and wave, and sky, The woods, the river's rocky margin steep. The boys lov'd best to watch the wild-fowl fly, To see the fishes from the water leap. Henry, on all within and all without, Attentive look'd, and frequently, the while, Some object to his children pointed out, That might instruction give, or call a smile. "See that plump-visag'd, snug and tidy wife, Who keeps all right and tight, where'er she goes; The busy, bustling habit of whose life, In ev'ry look, and word, and act, she shows. These are the dames, whose angry call Makes servants tremble, and brave husbands laugh. Let them alone ye witlings; after all, Nine out of ten, they are the better half." "Do see," cried Charles, "that little swarthy man, In long black boots, who holds his book so near To his snub-nose; help laughing if you can"--- "Beware, my son, at strangers how you sneer," Replied his father, "little do you dream How bright a mind within that form resides. The rough pearl-oyster, thus, would worthless seem To one unconscious of the gem it hides. "Smile, if you will, at those two pallid youths, Hard-by, in converse close, with heads together, Grasping at shades of metaphysic truths, In hopes to solve some knotty if or whether. They come for health; yet there they sit, by th' hour, Discussing loud, from some dull schoolman's book, What is or is not in th' Almighty's power; And, meanwhile, neither of them deigns to look Upon th' Almighty's works which, all around, With his own radiant impress ever shine; Where health of mind and body may be found, And things to feed the soul with thoughts divine." Somewhat retir'd there was another group--- A mother with two children and her spouse. They could not fail, in Henry and his troop, Deep interest and compassion to arouse. She too for health was seeking; beauteous, young; A hectic flush but rendered her more fair. Her girls, unconscious, round their father hung, Who strove, in vain, to hide his anxious air. 'Twas sad to see the silent tear-drop stain Her lovely cheek, as on her girls she smil'd, With mix'd emotions that confess'd how vain She deem'd, at heart, the hope that oft beguil'd. Scarce, Henry from his children could conceal The long-quell'd anguish in his breast that rose; Or hide the tear that down his cheek would steal At sight of what awoke his own past woes. Yet still, he ceas'd not there to turn his eyes; Nor would he blot the mem'ry of the past. Strange! that our keenest pangs we seem to prize, And dwell on early sorrows to the last! It was relief to view a happier sight; A lovely infant in its mother's arms, Recovering from disease whose threat'ning blight Had rack'd her tender heart with dire alarms. To watch each fav'ring sign, she sat intent, And joy'd to see the babe cheer up the while. With heart too full to speak, her head she bent, And gave the little creature smile for smile. Kate would have given half her life, to snatch The infant from its mother's fond embrace; Its outstretch'd hand within her own to catch, And print a thousand kisses on its face. There was a towering manly-treading lass, With long sharp nose and philosophic look; Her brain, of borrow'd thoughts a mingled mass, Who valued nought that was not in a book. Heav'n help the mortal doom'd by cruel fate To bide the wordy torrent of her tongue! This precious creature fasten'd on our Kate All fearless of the woe that o'er her hung. The pure unblemish'd native light that beam'd From Kate's sweet face had caught this damsel's eyes; A subject, to her vanity, she seem'd, Whom she might safely deign to patronize. When to the enchanting Highland scene they came, One would have thought by book she knew it all; For ev'ry hill she found a classic name, And recognis'd each rill and waterfall. In long citations, such a peal was rung As serv'd our helpless victim to astound. She wish'd at heart that Scott had never sung, Or that the Lady of the Lake were drown'd. At length when dinner's stirring summons rang, To Kate, no music e'er had such a charm; No bird let loose more lightly ever sprang Than she, to catch her father's ready arm. Too clearly, by the tumult which ensued, The innate selfishness of man was shown; Careless of other's comfort, each pursued, With all his force, th' attainment of his own. But, with our gentle Henry, 'twas not so: Th' impatience of his children he withstood: He said, their meal 'twere better to forego Than show themselves both gluttonous and rude. While all seem'd mad with hunger and with thirst, He mov'd with measur'd step and tranquil air: The vacant place he took which offer'd first; Nor seem'd he, for himself, to have a care. What is the real gentleman, but he Who from the path of kindness never strays? Who truly is what he appears to be? And feels at heart the goodness he displays? The outside show of elegance and ease, The mere result of study and of art, Has pow'r, awhile, the eye and ear to please; But real worth alone can reach the heart. The one, like empty sounds that swell and roll, Conveys no clear sensation to the mind. The other reaches to the inmost soul, Like dulcet strains with touching words combin'd. Soon as the comfortless repast was o'er, They gladly left the cabin's breath confin'd, And, mounting to the open deck, once more, Inhal'd, with joy, the cool refreshing wind. Their spirits soon began more gay to rise; Toward all around they felt in social mood. For, though blue-stockings may the thought despise, 'Tis sure the mind gains health from solid food. But soon Kate saw that all her joy must end. "Oh dear! oh dear!" thought she, "what shall I do? Here comes my everlasting learned friend--- Well, well, Heav'n grant I ne'er may be a blue!" Ah no! her ev'ry word and ev'ry look Proclaim'd that no such fate she need to dread; Her thoughts and feelings, drawn from Nature's book, Shed simple truth's pure light o'er all she said. In vain she strives to shun the watchful gaze; Now clings more closely to her father's side; Now starts away to chase some child that strays; And now she seems to warn, and now to chide. So full of anxious care her thoughts appear, That interruption would be downright rude. Yet still, my lady blue kept ever near; And still, like sportsman keen, her game pursued; For Kate, who wish'd not ever to offend, A list'ner of no common value prov'd. But Henry could no more her steps attend; And, wearied, to a vacant seat he mov'd. When by her father she had plac'd her chair, And had the children safely station'd round, Her kind protectress fail'd not to be there; And nasal measures soon began to sound. As through this world we wend our weary way, So intermingled are the good and ill, That much is found our troubles to allay; This thought at least, they might be greater still. Declaimers seldom for an answer wait; At most, but for a careless yes or no; Thus Heav'n is pleas'd, in mercy, to abate What might have been the wretched list'ner's wo. But Kate, in truth, unfeign'd attention paid; And scarce could she her merriment control, While lurking smiles around her features play'd And furtive glances toward her father stole. Long did th' untiring speaker's voice resound With Southey's wonders and Montgomery's charms; Till, sudden, she beheld, on glancing round, Her patient list'ner---lock'd in Morpheus' arms. The angel look of sweet unsconcious Kate Proclaim'd how little dream'd she to offend, Or change to bitter wrath and vengeful hate The seeming friendship of a seeming friend. Her father could have burst with glee outright, To see the fury of the damsel's eyes; For, long since, to his keen experienc'd sight, She was a smiling vixen in disguise. Yet strove he, for his daughter, peace to make; Pleaded the engine's ceaseless weary stroke; How early she was call'd, that morn, to wake; And of her youth and inexperience spoke. This, to a lady of a certain age, Appear'd a sly premeditated blow; Away she turn'd, with inward glowing rage, And parted from her friends, a bitter foe. The morning mist that dims an op'ning rose Imparts new beauty, ere it melts away. And thus, our sleeper woke from soft repose With features brighten'd and with looks more gay. But keenest pleasure soon must loose its tone, When that's the only end we have in view. This, by our younger travellers was shown; Who now began to pant for somewhat new; To ask the distance they had still to go; At what abode they were to pass the night; Their progress seem'd continually more slow; They wish'd that Albany would come in sight. At length, the distant spires to view arise; And now the dreaded shoal awakes their fears. The pilot, with firm hand and watchful eyes, The vessel through the channel safely steers. Fierce rose the strife, the tumult and the noise, When first the steamer touch'd her destin'd shore. On rush'd the hack-men and the baggage-boys. The safety-valve sent forth its angry roar. In terror and amaze the girls they stand. The boys confounded, scarce know where to turn; Impetuous, they at once would rush to land; But, self-possession Henry bid them learn, And not, by eagerness, increase the strife. And, as he calmly stood, pronounc'd this rule--- "In all the troublous passages of life, Pray for a spirit patient, firm, and cool." And now, beneath a skillful driver's care, We leave our friends to wind their tortuous way, And seek a night's refreshment, to repair Their strength and spirits, for another day. |
| Saratoga 4 | 40 |
6
[Initial Pivot Word - the] The azure heav'n The glorious light The cloud-form'd shadows The cool untainted zephyr The sparkling stream
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+34= 40
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From sleep profound our young folk op'd their eyes, When first the warning bell sent forth its peal; And for a moment gazed, with that surprise Which, waking far from home, we're wont to feel. Anon, they heard their father bid them rise, And, quick, make ready for their morning meal. That o'er, they sprang their journey to pursue; First casting round their rooms a parting look: For this last glance, if travellers tell what's true, Saves many a straggling kerchief, cap, or book. Now are the party on their way again, Well stow'd, our Henry 'mid his sons and daughters, And swiftly gliding in the railroad train To Saratoga's fam'd health-giving waters. Of all the joys that from our senses flow, None are, perhaps, more exquisitely keen Than those emotions which light spirits know When entering first upon a rural scene. The azure heav'n that calls our thoughts on high; The glorious light of summer shed around; The hills and vales that in the prospect lie; The cloud-form'd shadows flying o'er the ground; The cool untainted zephyr gently blowing; The shrubs and grass refresh'd by ev'ning showers; The sparkling streams along the valleys flowing; The trees wide spread, or cluster'd into bowers; While rapid motion, as the carriage flies, Stirs up new life and spirit in the soul, Just as the mantling foam and bubbles rise In generous wine that's dash'd into the bowl;--- These, and unnumber'd other pure delights With which the varied charms of Nature shine, Give to the heart an impulse that excites A joy that seems to have a touch divine. But pleasure, soon or late, is dash'd with pain; For mists will hide the landscape from the eye; The clearest skies will gather clouds and rain; Cool winds will heated grow, and dust will fly. Some of those pleasures, and these troubles too, While on their way, our younger party felt. The day wax'd warm; they all impatient grew; No more on rural scenes their fancies dwelt; They long'd from crowded durance to get free, And stretch at ease their cramp'd up limbs, once more; And though, at first, nought could exceed their glee, At length, they fairly wish'd their journey o'er. On, on, the engine, puffing, panting, went; Impatient, as it seem'd, the goal to reach; And, ever and anon, afar it sent Its warning voice, with fearful goblin screech. Away, as from a monster's jaws outspread, Th' astonish'd beasts o'er hill and valley bound: With eyes wild gleaming, from unwonted dread, And, head and ears erect, they gaze around. At length, their father bid his children cheer; For, at the rate they then were hurl'd along, Their durance soon should end, as they were near To Saratoga's idly busy throng. Soon as arriv'd, like vultures on their prey, The keen attendants on the baggage fell; And trunks and bags were quickly caught away, And in the destin'd dwelling thrown pell-mell. Then names were register'd, and rooms were shown, And, for the dinner dress, arrangements made: And, ere another rapid hour had flown, By joyous hearts the summons was obey'd. Life pass'd without some purpose kept in view Were worse than death. The lonely pris'ner craves Some painful task or labor to pursue; And, for relief, the fiercest danger braves. How then could sons of pleasure chase away From these gay scenes the horrors of ennui, But for the three great epochs of the day, The happy hours of Breakfast---Dinner---Tea? All then inhale fresh spirits and new life; E'en churls look pleasant; wealth forgets its pride; The fiercest disputants forego their strife; Segars and Politics are thrown aside. Yet, when we have no higher end and aim Than pleasure, for the moment, as it flies, It soon gives way to feelings cold and tame, And, while we grasp it, languishes and dies. One who pursues the same unvarying round Of dinners, concerts, billiards, drives and dances, Is like a squirrel cag'd, who, though he bound, And whirl about his wheel, yet ne'er advances. In all his children's pastimes Henry shar'd; For, to repress young spirits, he thought wrong; But, little, in his very heart, he car'd For what engag'd the pleasure-hunting throng. And o'er the young folk too the thought would steal, That e'en to waltz at night, at noon to roam, To drink the waters, taste the hurried meal, Were not the the pure delights of their dear home. The sounds of strife or wassail, in the night, Or of departing guests, at dawn of day, Would fill the boys with wrath, the girls with fright; And ofttimes chase their rest and sleep away. At meals, some noisy pack their peace would mar; Who deem'd it to gentility a stain, Though half-seas-o'er with brandy at the bar, To call for other bev'rage than champaign. But swift, away, away, the hours they flew; Those winged hours that go so strangely fast When unaccustom'd objects meet the view; Yet seem of such unwonted length, when past. When favoring skies and sunbeams cheer'd the day, The mansion's inmates scatter'd far and wide, The lakes to view, or in the fields to stray, To hunt, to fish, to visit, drive, or ride. Our party made the usual tour of jaunts. They climb'd the hills, to view the vales below. They sought for rude uncultivated haunts; Or stray'd among the woods where wild flowers grow. The wonted casualties that travellers meet Would cause perplexity, or fears excite; A drunken driver tottering in his seat; A sudden break-down, or way lost at night. But when they came back safe and well at last, And, after toil, enjoy'd refreshing rest, They felt that all the troubles they had past Gave to their pleasures still a keener zest. 'Twere wearisome of all the scenes to tell That caus'd enraptur'd feelings to awake. But we may venture, for a while, to dwell Upon the beauties of that lovely lake Whose pure wave drinks so deep heav'n's holy light, It seems a sacred character to claim; And from religion's sacramental rite, In days now long gone by, deriv'd its name. It seems call'd forth by magic to the eye, With countless verdant islets scatter'd o'er; Its hills contrasting with the azure sky, And rising all romantic from the shore. While speechless pleasure in their faces beam'd, Kate and her sisters, from the winged boat, Would in the crystal dip their hands, that seem'd Like water-lilies on the wave to float. When pelting rain or tempest threat'ning round Enforc'd th' unwilling guests at home to stay, They sought whate'er expedients could be found To cheat the time and haste the weary day. Recourse was had to writing or to books; To walking, lounging, singing, whistling, humming; To billiards and backgammon, rings and hooks; On hoarse pianos to incessant thrumming. On such a day as this, a lively lass Was playing songs and waltzes, and odd ends Of fav'rite melodies, the time to pass, Surrounded by a knot of sportive friends. While playful mischief lurk'd in ev'ry eye, With many a laugh or titter half supprest, They slyly watch'd the figures passing by, And look'd and whisper'd many a merry jest. A stranger, of a quiet modest air, Walked slowly round, or at a distance sat. For him, no more did our gay party care Than for a purring, chimney-corner cat. Amid the medley, suddenly his ear Perceiv'd, the notes of an uncommon strain. He rose, and quietly approaching near, Petition'd gently for the air again. The player, courteously the strain renew'd, Which she, from foreign voice, had learn'd by rote. He, as she play'd it o'er, the theme pursued, And prick'd it in his tablets, note for note; Then, at the instrument he took his seat, And play'd the melody with graceful turn, And taste so pure, and harmony so sweet, As made th' astonish'd nymphs with blushes burn. Charm'd by the pow'r of music's touching art, With looks how chang'd the stranger now they view! And him it well behoov'd to guard his heart, Lest mischief-loving eyes should pierce it through. They're of a compound strange, these fair young creatures; Though made up, as 'twould seem, of fun and mirth, And apes of fickle fashion's wildest features, They can excel, when tried, in moral strength and worth. They're like the plaything children call a Witch; Made of a weight attach'd to somewhat light. Howe'er you twist or twirl it, toss or twitch, It has a saving power that brings it right. |
| Saratoga 5 | 24 |
3
[Repeated Words - Repetition with Connector] two and two
[Repeated Words - Repetition with Connector]
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
+21= 24
[Initial Pivot Word - with]
[Initial Pivot Word - and]
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Initial Pivot Word - with]
[Initial Pivot Word - in]
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - and]
[Initial Pivot Word - of]
[Initial Pivot Word - of]
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[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - in]
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[Single Word Within Phrases]
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'Twas pleasant, in the ev'nings, to behold The motley groups with which the mansion teem'd, Of various nations form'd, both young and old, That like to living panoramas seem'd; To view the waltzers whirling, two and two, With foot and heart both lighter than a feather; While glancing dames watch'd, who and who, In graceful coil, had wound themselves together. There might be seen the planter from the South, With touch of fire, but open, debonair; The merchant from the East, with firm-set mouth, And dark inquiring eye, and look of care. Gay Frenchmen too, in social pastimes skill'd, With manners polish'd, and with lively faces; Young Englishmen, in Greek and Latin drill'd, More favor'd by the Muses than the Graces. Italian counts and Spanish dons, all cold, Sedate and grave; but let them rouse with ire, Like snow-clad mountains, they'll be found to hold The elements that feed volcanic fire. And well-bred Germans too, of whom some say They are a heavy, dull, Boeotian race; But, if the truth were told, as Frenchmen gay, To solid lore, they join a Frenchman's grace. And, now and then, might fall upon the ear The voice of some conceited vulgar cit, Who, while he would the well-bred man appear, Mistakes low pleasantry for genuine wit. Men of deep learning, or of sterling worth, Were in the crowd conceal'd and to be sought; Just as the finer metals, deep in earth Are mostly found, ere to the view they're brought. Perchance some careless genius might be told By flashes he unconscious threw around, That seem'd like grains of sparkling virgin gold Strewn by the hand of Nature o'er the ground. Some tranquil minds were made to shine by dint Of fools' attacks, that waken'd gen'rous ire; As steel elicits from the stricken flint The sudden brilliance of its secret fire. Fierce party-politicians too there were, Who all their foes in Satan's colors paint; Those very foes who, when time serves, they'll swear To be, each one, as pure as any saint. Some few, who would philosophers be deem'd, At what is sacred aim'd their heartless wit; Whose wanton sallies, to the pious, seem'd The pale cold light which putrid things emit. From such, our Henry never turn'd aside, When aught they said was to his ear address'd; But, by superior lore, abased their pride; Or, by his keen reproof, their levity repress'd. He made them know and feel that, in his eyes, The humblest pauper who could hope and pray, With heart sincere, above this state to rise, Was of a higher, nobler caste than they. Some damsels, even when they did not quote, Were heard to choose their phrases with such care, That all seem'd like a book well learn'd by rote. Henry enjoin'd his children to beware Of seeking words and phrases grand and fine; And said, in language, ornament misplac'd, Just as in dress, was wont to be a sign Of badly tutor'd mind and vulgar taste. There were some dainty dames of minds so pure, Of sense so exquisite, and ears so chaste, That all around them, soon or late, were sure, By some unlucky word to be disgrac'd. If e'er Kate chanc'd to mention leg or knee, All seem'd with wounded modesty to glow. Yet, in the midst ofthan th wildest mirth and glee, Kate's mind was purer e mountain snow. And, while cold scornful smiles were seen around, Henry would whisper, she had spoken well; And that true modesty was ever found Between the prudish and the gross to dwell. Dandies were lounging seen in the saloon, With ev'ry item of their dress arrang'd By rule; and, ev'ry morn, and night, and noon, That dress, to suit the time of day, was chang'd. These exquisites might fancy to unbend So far, as with some belle a waltz to walk; But, should they to an humbler dance descend, Would like the statue in Don Juan stalk. For why should they their toilet jeopardize? Uncurl a whisker, rumple a cravat, Disturb a curl that on fair forehead lies? What dire misfortune could be worse than that? Fair forms, as light as sylphs of noiseless tread, Imparted life and radiance to the scene; Like brilliant flowerets o'er the meadow spread, Or ev'ning fire-flies twinkling on the green. But, though complexions might be found more fair, Maidens more fit to shine at rout or ball, And who'd be call'd of more distinguish'd air, Our Kate was still the loveliest of them all. Hers was so archly innocent a look, Such pensiveness with gaiety combin'd, As show'd a nature that at once partook Of ev'ry various quality of mind. When aught of pity mov'd her gentle heart, There was a light, that seem'd not of this earth, Beam'd from her eyes, and fail'd not to impart To all she said or did a tenfold worth. She, with her brother Charles, one sultry eve, To seek refreshing breezes, chanc'd to stray. A wand'ring pauper pray'd them to relieve His want; nor turn'd they from his prayer away. They both were mov'd, for he was old and maim'd. He thank'd our Charles; but such the angel grace With which Kate gave her alms, that he exclaim'd "May God Almighty bless your kind sweet face!" |
| Saratoga 6 | 25 |
6
[Repeated Word - Simple Repetition] Home! home!
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+19= 25
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[Initial Pivot Word - the]
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[Single Word Within Phrases]
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But now autumnal airs began to blow; At morn and eve, the atmosphere was cold; The hours no longer seem'd on wings to go; The pleasures most approv'd grew stale and old. Home! home! whose very name has magic power, Became, each moment, dearer to each heart. Of all their life, 'twould be the happiest hour, When for that home they should again depart. At length, quite wearied with the course they'd run, It was arrang'd, if naught the plan should mar, For all to rise before the morrow's sun, And make them ready for the homeward car. Bright roseate hues adorn'd the eastern skies As Sol lit up the morn without a cloud. Sleep quickly vanish'd from our party's eyes; The gathering bustle rose more strong and loud; For now toward home they soon should be away. Each hand and tongue was busy as a bee; And, ere the ev'ning of another day, They hop'd their wish'd-for home again to see. 'Twas one of those autumnal days that shine, Full oft, so glorious, on our favor'd land; When th' heavens and all the elements combine To render Nature beautiful and bland. There breath'd around a heav'nly influence--- Creation look'd so smiling and so blest, That sorrow's keenest pangs grew less intense, And heaviest care with lighter burden prest. All objects shone so lucid and so clear, So sharp each outline on the deep-blue sky, That what was distant seem'd to draw more near, And ev'ry tint came radiant to the eye. The foliage had exchang'd its summer green For all the varied hues by Autumn shed. No rustling breeze disturb'd the tranquil scene That seem'd a picture to the view outspread. If e'er we mortals feel unmingled bliss, While through this world of care we roam, 'Tis in the hour, when, on a day like this, We speed us, after absence long, for home. Away they flew, those cars that seem design'd With birds of swiftest strongest wing to race; And, as no more by former laws confin'd, Seem, while they go, to mock at time and space. With such delight our party's minds were fraught, To think that homeward they were hurl'd again; Such pleasure 'twas to dwell upon the thought, They almost wish'd the motion to restrain. Just as we see a child delay to taste Some ripe and tempting fruit 'tis wont to prize; Nor will it to the dainty pleasure haste; But still puts off the feast, and fondly eyes. To fam'd Albania's dullness and its dust We leave our party for another night, The hours to sleep away, in hope and trust, At home, next day, to find all well and right. No need there was, at morn, for bell to chime, Nor for the voice of Henry's early call. They were afoot long ere the wonted time; Their things were pack'd, and they were ready all. Ere long, our Henry, with his girls and boys Were on the steamer's deck; and one day more Of pleasure, mix'd with bustle, heat and noise, Brought back the travellers safely to their door, And then it was a goodly sight, to see The servants, old and young, all rushing out Their faces beaming with such heart-felt glee! And ev'ry tongue in motion!---Such a rout! The watch-dog jumping with outrageous joy, His paws outstretch'd upon his master's neck; Who had his utmost vigor to employ, The creature's loving violence to check. The favorite lap-dog leapt around the girls, And would be seen and heard amid the throng: He wagg'd his tail, and shook his silken curls, And downright scolded that they staid so long. And C*sar bustled round, with mouth agrin; A faithful heart his homely form beneath, Distinguish'd from the rest by ebon skin In shining contrast with his snow-white teeth. Amid their joy, the young-folk felt surprise That when they tried to speak, their lips were dumb. Soft silent tears came gushing to their eyes; With pleasing pain their hearts were overcome. When all were hous'd, and things arrang'd, at last, And when they felt they were at home once more: When they had risen from their light repast; And when their ev'ning orisons were o'er; Then, ere retiring to their welcome rest, Kate to her father's cheek approach'd her lip, And ask'd him, as he held her to his breast, "Now, father, was it such a foolish trip?" "No," said our Henry, "not, if you're return'd With health robust, and love of home renew'd; If to appreciate true worth you've learn'd, And with due scorn have worthless folly view'd; If Nature's works have tended to inspire, For what is beautiful and pure, a keener love; If, at their view, you felt a holy fire Enwrap your heart, and call your thoughts above. But, if this be the first step to the moon, For which you seem'd so eager, in the Spring; If, henceforth, we're to sail in a balloon, Or other craft of new-invented wing; If this, your first excursion do but tend To render you unquiet, prone to roam, To make your peace on what's abroad depend, 'Twere better far you ne'er had left your home. And now, my darling rogue, to bed away, Still to this sublunary state resign'd; And, whereso'er your lot, forever pray That Heav'n may grant you a contented mind." |
| Portrait | 8 |
4
[Repeating Sounds] [WAS: Single Word Within Phrases] the earth this earth-born frame
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+4= 8
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The semblance of your parent's time-worn face Is but a sad bequest, my children dear! Its youth and freshness gone, and in their place The lines of care, the track of many a tear! Amid life's wreck, we struggle to secure Some floating fragment from oblivion's wave We pant for somewhat that may still endure, And snatch at least a shadow from the grave. Poor, weak, and transient mortals! why so vain Of manly vigor or of beauty's bloom? An empty shade for ages may remain When we have moulder'd in the silent tomb. But no! it is not we who moulder there; We, of essential light that ever burns, We take our way through untried fields of air, When to the earth this earth-born frame returns. And 'tis the glory of the master's art Some radiance of this inward light to find; Some touch that to his canvass may impart A breath, a sparkle of the immortal mind. Alas! the pencil's noblest power can show But some faint shadow of a transient thought, Some waken'd feeling's momentary glow, Some swift impression in its passage caught. Oh! that the artist's pencil could portray A father's inward bosom to your eyes; What hopes, and fears, and doubts perplex his way, What aspirations for your welfare rise. Then might this unsubstantial image prove, When I am gone, a guardian of your youth, A friend for ever urging you to move In paths of honor, holiness, and truth. Let fond imagination's power supply The void that baffles all the painter's art; And when those mimic features meet your eye, Then fancy that they speak a parent's heart. Think that you still can trace within those eyes The kindling of affection's fervid beam, The searching glance that every fault espies, The fond anticipation's pleasing dream. Fancy those lips still utter sounds of praise, Or kind reproof that checks each wayward will, The warning voice, or precepts that may raise Your thoughts above this treach'rous world of ill. And thus shall Art attain her loftiest power; To noblest purpose shall her efforts tend Not the companion of an idle hour, But Virtue's handmaid and Religion's friend. |
| Fashion | 16 |
10
[Initial Pivot Word - negatives] [WAS: Parallel Phrase Construction, No Word Repetition, Similar] No modish lay, no melting strain
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
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+6= 16
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Who in the stream of fashion thoughtless glide; No modish lay, no melting strain of love Is here pour'd forth, your tender hearts to move. Yet think not envious age inspires the song, Rejecting all our earth-born joys as wrong. Think me no matron stern who would repress Each modern grace, each harmless change of dress; But one whose heart exults to join the band Where joy and innocence go hand in hand; One who, while modesty maintains her place, That sacred charm which heightens every grace, Complacent, sees your robes excel the snow, Or borrow colors from the aerial bow. But in those half-rob'd bosoms are there hid No thoughts which shame and purity forbid? Why do those fine-wrought veils around you play, Like mists which scarce bedim the orb of day? What mean those careless limbs, that conscious air, At which the modest blush, the vulgar stare? Can spotless minds endure the guilty leer, The sober matron's frown, the witling's sneer? Are these the charms which, in this age refin'd, Ensure applause, and captivate the mind? Are these your boasted powers; are these the arts Which kindle love, and chain inconstant hearts? Alas! some angry power, some demon's skill Hath wrought this strange perversity of will; For sure some foe to innocence beguiles, When harmless doves attempt the serpent's wiles. True, Fashion's laws her ready votaries screen, And ogling beaux exclaim, Oh Goddess! Queen! But, vile the praise and adoration sought By arts degrading to each nobler thought! A base-born love those notes of praise inspires; That incense rises from unhallowed fires. If deaf while shame and purity complain, If reason's gentle voice be rais'd in vain, Learn from the scented nosegay in your hand The charms that can alone true love command. The flaunting tulip you reject with scorn, Though ting'd with all the hues that deck the morn; And, careful, search for humbler flowers which bloom Beneath the grass, yet scatter sweet perfume. The buds which only half their sweets disclose You fondly seize, but leave the full-blown rose. Humble the praise, and trifling the regard Which ever wait upon the moral bard! But there remains a hateful truth unsung Which burns the cheek, and falters on the tongue; And which, if modesty still hover round, Each virgin breast with sorrow must confound. "Those graceful modes," thus say your flattering beaux, "From ancient times and tastes refin'd arose." Disgrace not thus the names of Greece and Rome, Their birth-place must be sought for nearer home. Shame! shame! heart-rending thought! deep-sinking stain! That Britain's and Columbia's Fair should deign, Nay strive, their native beauties to enhance By arts first taught by prostitutes of France! O Modesty and Innocence! sweet pair Of dove-like sisters! still attend our Fair. Teach them, without your heav'nly influence, How vain the charms of beauty or of sense. Invest them with your radiance mild, yet bright; And give their sparkling eyes a softer light. Quick-mantling dimples on their cheeks bestow; And teach them with a purer red to glow; Let winning smiles too round those dimples gleam, Like moon-beams on the ruffled stream. And if resentment on the Muse attend From those she loves, and truly would befriend, Tell them, that cruel and unjust their ire; That she would warm their hearts with holy fire; And to the charms that soon must pass away Would add those mental beauties which shall ne'er decay. |
| Muse | 4 |
1
[Parallel Phrase Construction, No Word Repetition, Similar] gay gavotte dizzy waltz
+3= 4
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Bright God of harmony, whose voice Inspires the tuneful Nine, Oh, grant me now thy golden lyre; And teach a strain like thine! And come, sweet Heliconian Maids, With mine your notes to blend: The gay Terpsichore To her I've sworn eternal hate; My soul indignant views The wrongs by her to Pallas done, And every sister Muse. Deep shrouded in her gloomy clouds, Black Night of her complains, That many a dream within its grot An idler now remains. Enamour'd of the airy skill This frolic Muse displays When call'd by fashion's friendly voice To guide the sportive maze, A thousand nymphs of loveliest bloom, Fair Hebe's joy and pride, Reject me from their blithsome hearts, And all my pangs deride. What aspirations from this breast Their charms have caus'd to rise! But, ah! the winds dispers'd each pray'r Before it reach'd the skies. The lyre Apollo kindly gave I find avail me naught; Each tawny scraper's notes surpass The strains by Phoebus taught. How oft my swelling voice in vain Has pour'd th' unheeded song, While gay gavotte or dizzy waltz Call'd off the ready throng. In vain I've bid each thoughtless nymph Consult her mirror true; And, ere too late, the dire effects Of ceaseless balls to view. In vain I've mark'd the languid beam, That lights her sleepless eye, And loudly mourn'd the faded cheek, Where new blown roses die. In vain I've tried these various arts, And bid the numbers flow; I've learn't, 'tis folly to resist A fiddler's magic bow. Would that Apollo made thee leave The pure Castalian choir; Or bound thee with a golden string From off thy useless lyre! Learn, bold intruder, to the feet Thy empire is confin'd; Leave, then, some more exalted power To sway the human mind. But whither is my ardent soul In fury wrapt away? Pardon, ye fair, who court this Muse, And love her frolick sway. Already from the nymphs I hear The low-voic'd murmurs rise; I see the frowns that shade their brows--- The lightning of their eyes, And looks, that thousand dire alarms Within my breast create; Lest I, like Orpheus, should be torn, Or meet Absyrtus' fate. Ah, smooth those brows so fiercely knit! Fair vot'ries of the dance; And let a beaming smile of peace Adorn each lovely glance. Now let those fallen cheeks, so pale, Resume their native red; No more let peace and joy be chas'd By words in frolick said. And hark, your willing ears may catch The distant prelude's sound; I see the Goddess you adore descend, To lead the festive round. Now, from your seats, all spring alert, 'Twere folly to delay, In well-assorted pairs unite, And nimbly trip away. |
| Snow | 7 |
1
[Initial Pivot Word - other] Perhaps they are Perhaps they're
+6= 7
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[Initial Pivot Word - so]
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Come children dear, and look around; Behold how soft and light The silent snow had glad the ground In robes of purest white. The trees seem deck'd by fairy hand, Nor need their native green; And every breeze appears to stand, All hush'd, to view the scene. You wonder how the snows were made That dance upon the air, As if from purer worlds they stray'd, So lightly and so fair. Perhaps they are the summer flowers In northern stars that bloom, Wafted away from icy bowers To cheer our winter's gloom. Perhaps they're feathers of a race Of birds that live away, In some cold dreary wintry place, Far from the sun's warm ray. And clouds, perhaps, are downy beds On which the winds repose; Who, when they rouse their slumb'ring heads, Shake down the feath'ry snows. But see, my darlings, while we stay And gaze with fond delight, The fairy scene soon fades away, And mocks our raptur'd sight. And let this fleeting vision teach A truth you soon must know -- That all the joys we here can reach Are transient as the snow. |
| Natural Philosophy | 21 |
9
[Repeated Words - Repetition with Connector] woman, lovely woman
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
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[Parallel Phrase Construction,
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+12= 21
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Initial Pivot Word - a]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - a]
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The beasts who roam o'er Libya's desert plain Have gentler hearts than men who dare maintain That woman, lovely woman, hath no soul. They too seem drench'd in Circe's pois'nous bowl Who grant, the Fair may have a soul to save, But deem each female born an abject slave. Give me a maiden of unfetter'd mind, By thought and knowledge strengthen'd and refin'd! A gift like this more precious would I hold Than India's gems, or Afric's purest gold. Ye maids, whose vows to science are address'd, If thus your minds be fashion'd, thus impress'd, With joy your course pursue; nor heed, the while, Envy's malignant grin, nor Folly's smile. Trace Nature's laws; explore the starry maze; Learn why the lightnings flash, the meteors blaze. From earth to heav'n your view, inquiring, dart; And see how order reigns in every part. 'Tis sweet, 'tis wholesome to frequent this school Where all is beauty and unerring rule. But strain'd research becomes not well the fair; Deep thought imparts a melancholy air; The sparkling eye grows dim, the roses fade, When long obscur'd beneath a studious shade. Suffice it for a tender nymph to stray Where strength and industry have clear'd the way; To cull the fruits and flowers which bless the toil Endur'd by Newton, Verulam and Boyle. Yet all possess not senses to enjoy These flowers so fair, these fruits which never cloy. There runs through all things which our powers can note A golden thread which links the most remote. There is a kindred feature to be trac'd In things most opposite, most widely plac'd. In matter, thus, resemblance may be found To soaring mind, whose movements own no bound. For, as a fluid vainly strives to save A heavier mass from sinking in its wave, So, in the mind made up of trifles light, All weighty truths, o'erwhelm'd sink out of sight A while, perchance, it may endure to feel A sober thought's dread weight, as polish'd steel, Dropp'd gently on the water's face, seems loth To sink; but 'tis repulsion holds them both. Fair science, how thy modest cheeks would glow, If dragg'd to view in fashion's puppet-show! Midst fops and feathers, sighs and painted cheeks, Soft maiden blushes, and strange maiden freaks; Midst sickening pleasures, wearisome delights, Days doom'd to listlessness, and sleepless nights. Ill would'st thou fare amidst this gaudy train, Where all is treach'rous, transitory, vain! No, no, the fair who pant for joys like these Not wisdom's richest stores of wealth could please. Let Heaven and Earth, for them, be rul'd by chance; No laws they heed but those which rule the dance. Their eyes, fast fix'd on earth, ne'er love to roam O'er all the splendor of the starry dome, For them no stars e'er shone, since time began, With half the glories of a spangled fan. To you, ye Nymphs, inspirers of my song, No features here portrayed, I trust, belong. But should I see a girl at knowledge aim Because philosophy's a handsome name; Or who would learn because the fashion's so, And beckon science as she would a beau, This truth the trifler from my lips should know, "When Nature shall forget her 'stablish'd laws, And chance take place of an omniscient cause; When every creature some strange powers shall know, That swims in air, or treads the earth below; When bees, forgetful of their wonted skill, Shall idly flaunt, while butterflies distill The liquid sweets, and build the curious cell, Then may true wisdom grace a fluttering Belle." |
| Sand | 2 |
1
[Parallel Phrase Construction, No Word Repetition, Similar] beating surf yielding sand
+1= 2
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This name here drawn by Flora's hand Portrays, alas! her mind: The beating surf and yielding sand Soon leave no trace behind. But Flora's name shall still abide In many a bosom trac'd, Not e'en by time's destroying tide Nor fortune's storms effac'd. |
| Cowper | 6 |
3
[Parallel Phrase Construction, No Word Repetition, Similar] fancy fir'd piety refin'd
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+3= 6
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[Initial Pivot Word - negatives]
[Initial Pivot Word - other] |
Sweet melancholy Bard! whose piercing thought Found humblest themes with pure instruction fraught; How hard for mortal sight to trace the ways Of Heav'n throughout thy life's mysterious maze! Why was it order'd that thy gentle mind, Which fancy fir'd and piety refin'd, Should in this guilty world be forc'd to dwell, Like some base culprit in his gloomy cell, Rous'd from its due repose by feverish dreams, By goblin forms, by din of fancied screams? Why was that fertile genius waste and chill'd? By wintry blasts its opening blossoms kill'd? A soil where Yemen's spicy buds might blow, And Persia's rose a purer fragrance know! Why bloom'd so late those sweet poetic flowers, Bless'd by no summer suns, no vernal showers, Which in the autumn of thy days were rear'd By friendship's dew, by fickle zephyrs cheer'd? I hear a distant Seraph bid me "Hold, Nor tempt high Heav'n by such inquiries bold. Weak-sighted mortal! canst thou not discern. What from unaided reason thou might'st learn? Had fortune's sunbeams cheer'd his early days, Amidst the soft favonian breath of praise, Those fruitful virtues which sprang up so fair, Those blossoms breathing odors on the air, By weeds of pride and vanity o'ergrown, Unheeded might have bloom'd, and died unknown. Presumptuous mortal 'twould become thee well On this thy fellow mortal's life to dwell; For in his breast, when rack'd by fiercest woes, To question Heav'n, no daring thought e'er rose. His actions vice and folly view with shame; His precepts foul-mouth'd envy dares not blame; His well-lov'd image still calls many a tear; His cherish'd name all ages shall revere." |
| Petrosa | 5 |
0
+5= 5
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Repeated Words - Repetition with Connector]
[Initial Pivot Word - his/her] |
Thy charms, Petrosa, which inspire Unnumber'd swains to chant thy praise, Bid me too join the tuneful choir, My faint and timorous voice to raise. And though more lofty songs invite, Regard for once, an humble swain The warbling thrush can oft delight More than the skylark's louder strain. Thy heavenly form, thy virtues too, In notes of praise ascend the skies. To opening charms, that strike the view, Unceasing aspirations rise. But midst these charms, by all confess'd, One fault thy hopeless swains declare; A heart there dwells within that breast, Which knows no love, which heeds no prayer. Despondent sighs, and notes of pain Delight, they say, Petrosa's ear To sue for pity, were as vain As from the rocks to ask a tear. Oh senseless throng! that callous breast Proclaims her nature's favor'd child While others pine, with love oppress'd, Her thoughts are free, her slumbers mild. And all that softness which gives grace And honor to the female heart, Though distant from its wonted place, She harbors in a nobler part; For, though that heart to every sound Which would compassion move be dull, The softness which should there be found Kind Nature granted to her---skull. |
| Song | 6 |
3
[Initial Pivot Words] [WAS: Parallel Phrase Construction, Multiword Repetition, Not Middle, Similar] have not these eyes have not these tell-tale sighs
[Repeated Words - Simple Repetition]
[Single Word Against Phrase]
+3= 6
[Single Word at End of Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - to] |
Sweet Maid, could wealth or power Thy heart to love incline, I would not bless the hour, The hour that calls thee mine. Ah! no, beneath the Heaven Blooms not so fair a flower As love that's freely given. Dear youth, have not these eyes, To thine so oft returning, Ah! say, have not these tell-tale sighs, These cheeks with blushes burning, My every thought bespoken? Do these denote disguise? Do these false love betoken? Oh! bliss, all bliss transcending, When souls congenial blending, The sacred flame inspire Of love's etherial fire. Such love, from change secure, For ever shall endure. True love like this, of heavenly birth, Not here confin'd to mortal earth, Shall to immortal Heaven aspire. |
| Old Dobbin | 4 |
1
[Single Word Against Phrase] Come then come
+3= 4
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - other] |
Oh Muse! I feel my genius rise On soaring pinions to the skies. Whom shall I sing? The Muse replies--- Old Dobbin. Come then, sweet Goddess, come, I pray, Assist me with responsive lay, To all I sing you need but say Old Dobbin. Who, in this world of varying ill, Keeps on his even tenor still, Nor fails his duty to fulfil? Old Dobbin. Who, while with passions men are blind, Ne'er lets impatience stir his mind, But jogs on steady, slow and kind? Old Dobbin. Who, ne'er for taunt nor scoff will budge, But goes along with easy trudge, As grave and solemn as a judge? Old Dobbin. Who like a Stoick, scorns disgrace, Nor e'er exults in pride of place, But does each task with equal grace? Old Dobbin. Who then, celestial Muse, may claim The high reward of spotless fame, The glory of a deathless name? Old Dobbin. |
| Ball | 11 |
1
[Initial Pivot Word - other] those qualms, those aches
+10= 11
[Repeated Words - Repetition with Connector]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Initial Pivot Word - and]
[Initial Pivot Word - and]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Initial Pivot Word - other] |
Full well I know what direful wrath impends, From Fashion's gay and numerous host of friends, O'er all who blindly list not in her cause, Nor swear eternal fealty to her laws. I know with what despotic sway she rules O'er old and young, o'er wise as well as fools; In what imperious tones she bids the throng Obey her word, though Heav'n pronounce it wrong. Yet, though my crimes against this power so high Be numberless, and oft of deepest dye, Leave I entreat to extenuate my blame: A right which guiltiest criminals may claim; E'en they who fly not at a Lady's call, And dare withstand the attraction of a ball. Of magic zones and rings you oft have heard, By fairies on their favorites conferred, Which pinch'd the wearers sore, or made them bleed, Whene'er they went astray in thought or deed. Nor think these stories false because they're old, But true as this which soon I will unfold. Sweet sleep had shed its mists around my eyes, And fancy's motley forms began to rise, When, 'mid these fleeting phantoms of the night, A vision stood distinct before my sight. Though far below the human size it seem'd A dazzling brightness from its visage beam'd. My airy dreams it seem'd to chase away, And thus in sweetest accents deign'd to say: "Hail, Youth! In me behold a friendly power, Thy guard in every place, at every hour, Who thus appear expos'd to mortal view, Clearly to mark the course you should pursue. To me 'tis giv'n your virtue to secure From custom's force and pleasure's dangerous lure. I watch the motions of your youthful mind, Rejoicing when to virtue 'tis inclin'd; But when a growing folly is descried, To root it out, no art I leave untried. Those drugs I mix in pleasure's luscious bowl Which pain the body to preserve the soul. That listlessness, those qualms, those aches I send Which dissipation's giddy round attend. Nor let these warnings, by your Guardian giv'n, By winning pleasure from your thoughts be driv'n. For if, regardless of my friendly voice, In Fashion's gaudy scenes your heart rejoice, Dire punishments shall fall upon your head: Disgust, and fretfulness, and secret dread. Unmeaning forms shall swim before your eyes, Wild as the clouds which float in vernal skies. But if true wisdom all your thoughts employ, I promise lasting peace and health and joy. A mind untouch'd by malice or by spleen Shall make your slumbers light, your thoughts serene; And through the ills which mortals must betide I still will be your counsellor and guide." So spoke the friendly power; then, waving light His azure pinions, vanish'd from my sight. Such is the guardian Genius, ever near, Whose love I strive to gain, whose wrath I fear. But, when his favoring smiles I would secure, Complaining friendship's frown I oft endure; And now, for open breach of Fashion's laws, A criminal, am forc'd to plead my cause. Such is my lot; and though I guilty prove, Compassion sure my Judge's breast will move. Not pardon for my fault I hope to find; But humbly pray, you'll change to one more kind The threaten'd sentence, cruel as 'tis hard, To lose forever your benign regard. |
| Fragment Fair | 6 |
3
[Initial Pivot Word - and] and smooth and new
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Initial Pivot Word - and]
+3= 6
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
[Initial Pivot Word - other] |
My merry friend, your balls are wound; And glad I'll be, if they can bound As light and brisk as you. Some thoughts, the ravelings of my brain, Which here I've wrought into a skein, Ask your acceptance too. Mid baubles that attract mankind, We oft some sober hint may find, Our reason to employ. To those who view the world aright, There may arise a moral light E'en from the merest toy. These balls, so round and smooth and new, Have much within them, hid from view, That's worthless, when alone. How like is this to many a wight Whose charms would vanish from the sight, Could but his heart be shown! Yet, if our thought again we turn, An emblem here we may discern Of what's oft seen on earth: For, e'en the vicious and the loose May still be found to have their use, When awed by solid worth. What are those forms, so neat and light, Of dazzling hues and purest white, That grace your annual fair? They're shreds, and patches, and odd ends, The useless rubbish each one sends, Dispos'd with taste and care. How much that meets our ears and eyes, Of what the world calls great and wise, Is like that showy scene! Could we but view the secret springs Of many fair and specious things, How chang'd would be their mien! And yet again, we there are taught The powerful sway that mind and thought O'er senseless matter hold; How genius can, with plastic hand, In all we see some worth command, Or hidden charm unfold. May you and each industrious maid Whose skillful hands have lent their aid To deck the fairy show, Be deep impress'd by your own work How much that's false and weak may lurk Where brightest colours glow. May your affections there incline Where native worth and virtue shine Unchang'd by specious art; Where all is natural, frank, and kind; Where Truth's all-piercing eye would find A sound and loyal heart. |
| To a Lady | 15 |
4
[Initial Pivot Word - so] so fair, so bright
[Single Word at End of Phrases]
[Single Word Against Phrase]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
+11= 15
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - of]
[Initial Pivot Word - so]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Repeated Words - Repetition with Connector]
[Initial Pivot Word - so]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - to] |
Thy dimpled girls and rosy boys Rekindle in thy heart the joys That bless'd thy tender years: Unheeded fleet the hours away; For, while thy cherubs round thee play, New life thy bosom cheers. Once more, thou tell'st me, I may taste, Ere envious time this frame shall waste, My infant pleasures flown. Ah! there's a ray, of lustre mild, Illumes the bosom of a child, To age, alas! scarce known. Not for my infant pleasures past I mourn; those joys which flew so fast, They too had many a stain; But for the mind, so pure and light, Which made those joys so fair, so bright, I sigh, and sigh in vain. Well I remember you, blest hours! Your sunbeams bright, your transient showers--- Thoughtless I saw you fly; For distant ills then caus'd no dread, Nor cared I for the moments fled, For memory call'd no sigh. Fond parents swayed my every thought; No blame I feared, no praise I sought, But what their love bestowed: Full soon I learn'd each meaning look; Nor e'er the angry glance mistook For that where rapture glowed. Whene'er night's shadows call'd to rest, I sought my father, to request His benediction mild: A mother's love more loud would speak, With kiss on kiss she'd print my cheek, And bless her darling child. Thy lightest mists and clouds, sweet sleep! Thy purest opiates thou dost keep, On infancy to shed. No guilt there checks thy soft embrace, And not e'en tears and sobs can chase Thee from an infant's bed. The trickling tears which flow'd at night, Oft hast thou stay'd, 'till morning light Dispell'd my little woes. So fly before the sunbeam's power The remnants of the evening shower Which wet the early rose. Farewell, bless'd hours! full fast ye flew, And that which made your bliss so true Ye would not leave behind. The glow of youth ye could not leave; But why, why cruelly bereave Me of my artless mind? Childhood's unwrinkled front so fair, So smooth, so free from touch of care, Must feel the hand of age: But can no power preserve the soul Unharm'd by pleasure's soft control, Nor rent by passion's rage? The changes which o'ertake our frame, Alas! are emblems of the same Which on the mind attend. Yet who reviews the course he has run, But thinks were life once more begun, Unspotted it should end? Fond Mother! hope thy bosom warms That on the prattler in thy arms Heaven's choicest gifts will flow. Thus let thy prayer incessant rise To Him who, thron'd above the skies, Can feel for man below. "O! Thou, whose view is ne'er estrang'd From innocence, preserve unchang'd Through life my darling's mind; Unchang'd in truth and purity, Still fearless of futurity, Still artless, though refin'd. "As oft his anxious nurse hath caught And sav'd his little hand that sought The bright, but treacherous, blaze; So let fair Wisdom keep him sure From glittering vices which allure, Through life's delusive maze. "Oh! may the ills which man enshroud, As shadows of a transient cloud, But shade, not stain my boy. Then may he gently drop to rest, Calm as a child by sleep oppress'd And wake to endless joy." |
| Wife | 7 |
3
[Initial Pivot Word - other] Fancy's pencil Fancy's self
[Initial Pivot Word - a]
[Initial Pivot Word - a]
+4= 7
[Repeated Words - Simple Repetition]
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Initial Pivot Word - so] |
The dreams of Hope that round us play, And lead along our early youth, How soon, alas! they fade away Before the sober rays of Truth. And yet there are some joys in life That Fancy's pencil never drew; For Fancy's self, my own dear wife, Ne'er dreamt the bliss I owe to you. You have awaken'd in my breast Some chords I ne'er before had known; And you've imparted to the rest A stronger pulse, a deeper tone. And e'en the troubles that we find Our peace oft threat'ning to o'erwhelm, Like foreign foes, but serve to bind More close in love our little realm. I've not forgot the magic hour When youthful passion first I knew; When early love was in its flower, And bright with ev'ry rainbow hue. Then, fairy visions lightly moved, And waken'd rapture as they pass'd; But faith and love, like yours approved, Give joys that shall for ever last. A spotless wife's enduring love, A darling infant's balmy kiss, Breathe of the happiness above; Too perfect for a world like this. These heaven-sent pleasures seem too pure To take a taint from mortal breath; For, still unfading, they endure 'Mid sorrow, sickness, pain, and death. When cruel Palsy's withering blow Had left my father weak, forlorn, He yet could weep for joy, to know, I had a wish'd-for infant born. And, as he lay in death's embrace, You saw when last on earth he smil'd; You saw the ray that lit his face When he beheld our darling child. Strange, mingled scene of bliss and pain! That, like a dream, before us flies; Where, 'midst illusions false and vain, Substantial joys are seen to rise. When to your heart our babes you fold, With all a mother's joy elate, I fondly think that I behold A vision of our future state. Hope comes, with balmy influence fraught, To heal the wound that rends my heart, Whene'er it meets the dreadful thought That all our earthly ties must part. Bless'd hope, beyond earth's narrow space, Within high Heaven's eternal bound, Again to see your angel face, With all your cherubs clustering round. Oh! yes, there are some beams of light That break upon this world below, So pure, so steady, and so bright, They seem from better worlds to flow. Reflected images are seen Upon this transient stream of time, Through mists and shades that intervene, Of things eternal and sublime. Then let us rightly learn to know These heavenly messengers of love: They teach us whence true pleasures flow, And win our thoughts to joys above. And e'en when clouds roll o'er our head, Still let us turn our longing eyes To where Eternal Love has spread The changeless azure of the skies. |
| Flowers | 4 |
1
[Single Word Within Phrases] breath so sweet tints so gay,
+3= 4
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
[Initial Pivot Word - negative] |
There is a language giv'n to flowers, By which a lover may impart The bitter anguish that devours, Or extacy that swells his heart. And all the feelings of the breast, Between the extremes of bliss and wo, By tender flow'rets are exprest, Or plants that in the wild wood grow. These new-cull'd blossoms which I send, With breath so sweet and tints so gay, I truly know not, my kind friend, In Flora's language what they say; Nor which one hue I should select, Nor how they all should be combin'd, That at a glance, you might detect The true emotions of my mind. But, as the rainbow's varied hues, If mingled in proportions right, All their distinctive radiance lose, And only show unspotted white, Thus, into one I would combine These colors that so various gleam, And bid this offering only shine With friendship's pure and tranquil beam. |
| Yellow Fever | 24 |
6
[Repeated Words - Repetition with Connector] street to street
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Repeated Words - Repetition with Connector]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Repeated Words - Simple Repetition]
+18= 24
[Single Word Against Phrase]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Single Word at End of Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Repeated Word - Simple Repetition]
[Initial Pivot Word - of]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Single Word at End of Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
[Initial Pivot Word - the] |
Dread pestilence hath now fled far away; And life and health, once more, around us play; The din of commerce spreads from street to street; And parted friends with new warm'd friendship meet. Now many-colour'd nymphs, in noon-tide rows, To gazing eyes fresh-gather'd charms disclose. Welcome! all welcome to your wish'd abodes: But chiefly you who, skill'd in pleasure's modes, Forbid your thoughts on humbler themes to dwell, Receive the welcome of a veteran belle Whose heart's now dancing at the visions bright Of high exploits that play in fancy's sight. Now haste we to our winter's lov'd campaign, Arm'd for the glorious contests we maintain; For wars with all the rules grave matron's teach, Cold casuists applaud, or parsons preach. Courage! dear friends; our cause shall yet prevail. But there are notions, hatch'd from doctrines stale, 'Gainst which 'twere well your valorous souls to guard; For trifles oft e'en conquerors retard. We're told by moralists and dull divines That no pursuit becomes us which confines Our highest wishes to mere sensual joys, And thought of dread futurity destroys. They hold it not, indeed, true wisdom's part To wear grief's impress ever in the heart; But deem the oblivious temper of our mind For noble purposes by Heaven design'd; To aid mortality beneath the weight Of evils which oppress our tottering state; To check despair, and give our reason play; Reason, which calls from anxious cares away, And teaches to behold, with minds serene, The joys and ills that crowd life's motley scene. Try now this antique stuff by reason's test. All science and all rules of action rest On few clear principles assum'd as true. The rule we, frolic's children, keep in view Is this plain truth, whence all true precepts flow; Pleasure's the worthiest object man can know. Not pleasure felt by intellect alone; Nor dreams of bliss in distant prospect shown; But solid pleasure, present and secure; All that can flatter passion, sense allure. Let no vain fears this golden maxim hide, But let heart-chilling laws by this be tried; Then mark how emptily those croakers prate Of what beseems our frail inconstant state. Our frailty well we know; and 'tis for this We should forget futurity's abyss, And snatch from ruthless Time each proffered joy. Shall we, like drowsy dotards, e'er destroy Our blissful sports by thought? of ills the worst With which humanity by Heaven is curst? Thought! which forever tells some hateful truth; Says, wintry age must chill the glow of youth; To towering strength decrepitude foretells, And wrinkles to the cheek where beauty dwells? Drive, drive the fiend forever from your breasts; On thoughtlessness alone your pleasure rests. We late, you know, were chas'd by panic fears: 'Tis then but just to claim the due arrears Of pleasure thus detain'd, and to our store Of present joys add those withheld before. Let listless drones serenity approve; In no dull medium let us deign to move. Society is like a running wheel; All parts the same progressive impulse feel; And yet, towards happiness, the general end, These various parts with different motions tend. Calm conscientious minds the centre hold; While we are in the swift circumference roll'd. Those at the centre keep an even way; We in eccentric movements round them play. In quick vicissitudes we're whirl'd around; Now rais'd on high, now low upon the ground. We spurn the safe unchanging course they keep; And, while they calmly take their central sleep, We rush like wind, we make the sparkles fly; We raise the dust, and plunge through wet and dry; We splash the folk, and make the world all know Our rattling shall be heard where'er we go. "Enough of argument;" I hear you cry, "Where pleasure calls we'll like the lightning fly. "Come then, ye lofty favorers of the dance And splendid feast, whom fortune's gifts advance To eminence in Fashion's wide domain; Whose bright example leads a mimic train, With eager steps, your flowery paths to tread; Whose ire all deprecate with deeper dread Than wrath of Heav'n; for how can Heav'n assist The heart that mourns an invitation miss'd? Come forth with all your gay munificence, And teach mankind that true pre-eminence, True dignity, from outward grandeur springs; That they rise highest in the scale of things At whose command the guests most numerous throng; Whose halls ring oftenest with the dance and song; Who Nature's ill-fram'd laws most boldly slight; Convert the night to day, and day to night; Decrepitude in youthful sports engage; And teach to youth the confidence of age. "To arms! ye ever-ready belles, to arms! Arouse! ye gallant beaux, at Fashion's call. She, to excuse you from the feast or ball, Will heed no specious plea by sloth alleg'd. And chiefly you, ye beaux with chins unfledg'd, Who wisely quit your Algebra and Greek, True honor in our well-throng'd school to seek, Now quickly muster all your hopeful band, Train'd by our care, the glory of the land. How bright ye shine beyond those awkward clowns Who care for none but their preceptor's frowns; Who heed their noisy sports and cross-grain'd books More than the fairest fair-one's sweetest looks. "Men are too oft by this persuasion led; That care is due supremely to the head. But you, ne'er let your learned feet forget Their chassez, pigeon-wing and pirouette; And let mankind by your example know, The head's no worthier member than the toe. "Ye tawny minstrels; wake your viols sweet Whose measures guide our lightly tripping feet. Our life, depriv'd of you, were worse than death. Your heavenly notes are pleasure's vital breath. How oft does gloom the crowded hall pervade: In vain the hostess smiles, the beaux upbraid; The whispering murmurs rise, the gape goes round; Decorum's self in weariness is drown'd. But let your magic string's approaching twang Be heard, and feast of Comus sure ne'er rang With keener ecstacy and mirth more loud Than burst tumultuous from the wakening crowd. Thus, when some bark's becalm'd upon the deep, The listless passengers lie press'd with sleep And lassitude; the moments scarce creep by; And Sol seems weary as he climbs the sky. But, when the skilful mariner foresees, By tokens sure, a fair approaching breeze, Then instant life appears in every part; All spring alert, for joy fills every heart; With various notes the coming breeze they hail; Strain every rope, and set each swelling sail. "Ye powers of sport! I'm madden'd with delight By visions flying round, as meteors bright. Cotillions, concerts, fiddlers, mirth's whole train Of countless joys, rush wildly through my brain. Oh! may the phrenzy catch from soul to soul; May all who now own sober law's control Acknowledge law mere breath, mere ink and paper, And starch morality not worth a caper." |
| Nymphs | 10 |
4
[Initial Pivot Word - like] like fawns like flow'rets
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Repeated Word - Simple Repetition]
+6= 10
[Initial Pivot Word - in]
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - the] |
An idle swain late chanc'd to roam Beneath a grove's leaf-lattic'd dome, That near a verdant mount was plac'd Whose brow no title e'er had grac'd Till nymphs declared the mount should claim Sweet Harmony's inspiring name. Here, as the swain> at even strayed, Wooed by the grove's sequester'd shade, With thoughts unfix'd, and vacant eye, And idly sad, he scarce knew why; A mournful spirit of the wood, Touch'd haply, by his kindred mood, Soft-sighing from a hawthorn near, Thus whisper'd in his wond'ring ear. "A sprite I was, in happier times, Disporting in the favor'd climes Of early Greece; when freedom's ray Bade mirth through all her regions play; When wood-nymphs with their huntress-queen, The muses and the loves were seen To sport, like fawns, beside each rill, And deck, like flow'rets, every hill, 'Twas then I serv'd the lighter joys Of rural nymphs and sylvan boys; And, sportive as the summer airs, Exulted in my frolic cares. "Oft, to a playful zephyr chang'd, Along the reedy banks I rang'd; Or, sighing o'er the oaten field, I tried the note each stalk would yield, In quest of dulcet tones to suit Some favor'd fawn's or shepherd's flute. "Oft, in a fleecy vapor's guise, The zephyrs bore me to the skies: Where, 'midst the clouds with thunder fraught, The rainbow's brightest tints I caught; Then, melting into finest dews, Distributed the lovely hues To opening buds, or full-blown flowers, Round naiad's couch, or wood-nymph's bowers. "Oft, in a virgin lily's bell, I caught the purest dews that fell, With chaste suffusion to supply Some weeping Muse's languid eye. For, tears that from the Muses flow, Unlike the drops of vulgar wo, Emit the dew's inconstant gleam, And soon are chas'd by pleasure's beam--- "Dear airy partners in delight! Who skimm'd, like mists, the mountain's height, Or danc'd along the limpid stream Illum'd by freedom's golden beam! Ye perish'd in the floods and gales That ruin'd all our smiling vales, And chill'd and wither'd every bloom In tyranny's detested gloom! "A fiend that in the tempest flew On wing still wet with stygian dew Rapt me in a hurling blast Athwart the ocean's dreary vast; And set me, with infernal spell, In this sequester'd grove to dwell. Here, in my lonely prison bound, Beset with dire enchantments round, I've seen whole ages ling'ring go, With scarce a solace for my wo; Till late, beneath the neighb'ring shades, Methought a band of Tempe's maids, With all their wonted mirth elate, Came, destin'd by relenting fate, Their long, long rovings here to cease, And charm my anguish into peace. For, as they gambol'd o'er the green, Once more I saw Arcadia's scene; Again I heard each well-lov'd voice That bade the Aonian hills rejoice. But soon the lovely vision pass'd. Through lonely shades now sweeps the blast. Where, late, the fairy-footed throng Prolong'd the dance, or pour'd the song. If e'er thy bosom, gentle swain, Was touch'd with sympathetic pain, Hie thee to where the nymphs now dwell, And all my sorrows kindly tell. And say, if e'er this lone retreat Their lovely band again shall greet, I'll wake my long-neglected powers; Refine the dews, new-tint the flowers. I'll fringe the trees with speckled moss, And give their leaves a finer gloss. The painted fly shall learn to fling Sweet odors from his gaudy wing. I'll winnow, with my silken sails, Each noxious breath that taints the gales; With sweeter strains the birds inspire, And lead, myself, the tuneful choir. |
| Birthday | 3 |
1
[Initial Pivot Words] [WAS: Repeated Words - Simple Repetition] Once more I wake Once more invoke
+2= 3
[Initial Pivot Word - of] |
To hail thy natal day, fair maid, Once more I wake the lyre; Once more invoke each favoring muse My accents to inspire. But frown not if my humble strain No soothing homage pay To all the charms that grace thy mind, Or round thy features play. Alas! the brightest charms but yield A taper's trembling light; When fann'd by praise, awhile they glare, Then vanish from the sight; Or, like the soft unsullied snows That fall in graceful play, They shrink beneath the gentlest touch, And, silent, melt away. Nor shall the Muse thy foibles mark With keen relentless eye, That seem like clouds of lightest wing That speck the vernal sky. O! may young life's empurpled morn, Still mantling round thy head, Its balmly airs of youthful hope, with kindest influence, shed. May every cloud of darker hue, Ere evening shades advance, Dissolve away, or just be seen To skirt the blue expanse. And may soft tints of rosy light, With gold of purest ray, Their mild effulgence widely throw Around thy closing day. |
| Paganini | 7 |
4
[Initial Pivot Word - and] and claws and shanks
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Single Word Against Phrase]
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
+3= 7
[Initial Pivot Word - of]
[Initial Pivot Word - to] |
Accept, dear Doctor, my unfeigned thanks For Paganini's skull and claws and shanks, And all the wreathed string of bones, beside, That seem to grate within his shrivelled hide. One would have thought, while yet the mimic form Lay snugly in its wrappers, soft and warm, That 'twas the cast of some fat gouty fellow, With food surcharg'd, with wine and wassail, mellow. And, when the spectral figure was uprear'd, It still, the prey of strong disease appear'd; Like some sad victim, doom'd to writhe and twist Beneath the gripe of fierce Podagra's fist. Who would believe this skeleton possess'd Of sov'reign empire o'er the human breast? Of power to waken sorrow, fear, or rage; And then, the bosom's tumult, to assuage?--- Ye deep phrenologists, say, can ye tell Within what secret caves these wonders dwell? What covert way, what faintly shadow'd line Leads to the cell of Genius? spark divine! Genius! that thing inexplicably strange, That knows no measure to its boundless range; That, in the lowest depth or giddiest height, Still marks its path with beams of radiant light; Whose touch can free ten thousand hidden springs, And waken powers unknown, in humblest things; Can give to each a portion of its fire; And, with a fiddle, rapturous joys inspire. |
| Organist | 10 |
4
[Initial Pivot Word - his/her] His duties his pleasures
[Initial Pivot Word - of]
[Single Word, Reversed Meaning Within Phrases]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
+6= 10
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - and]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - of]
[Initial Pivot Word - to] |
The troubles of an Organist I sing; His duties and his pleasures too. Nor is his charge a light and trifling thing, If to his station he be true. 'Tis oft his task, a high and holy end, By humblest agents, to attain; To teach th' Almighty's praises to ascend From simpering minstrels, pert and vain. When none but thoughts religious, gentle, kind, Should reign within the sacred choir, It is his lot, too often, there to find Low bickerings, envy, mutual ire. Such jarring instruments must be combine; To harmonize such discords, strive; Breathings like these unite with themes divine, To keep devotion's fire alive. When to each voice its part he hath assign'd, And all seems right and order'd well, Some lurking discontent he oft will find, Some spirit anxious to rebel. And where the springs of mental discord lie 'Mid vocal harmony conceal'd, A touch may bid the choir to fragments fly, Like blow on glass that's unanneal'd. One deems it to her dignity a slight In rank of second to be plac'd; Another claims a solo as his right; And in a chorus feels disgrac'd. Oft 'tis the sense of interest alone That death to harmony prevents; And, as in other things, here too is shown The might of dollars and of cents. To vex him too, the organ-bellows squeak, Or finest notes get out of tune; Some pipes seem sulky, and refuse to speak, While some, loquacious, speak too soon. When to emotions that his soul expand He would, in noble strains, give vent, And fills with richest harmony each hand, 'Tis chance, the wind is nearly spent. And all his thoughts sublime to fury change At him who should the bellows ply; While th' organ utters fading notes so strange, They seem to mock him as they die. Such, in this life, our lot! What's noble, grand, What bids the thoughts to Heav'n ascend, May on the working of a menial hand, Or on a breath of air depend. But when all's done that human pow'r can do To make his duties smooth and light, And movements noiseless glide, and notes are true, Then let him see his heart be right. For not on purity and depth of tone, On science link'd with manual skill And fancy's flights, must he depend alone His sacred duty to fulfil. The gifts of Nature, be they e'er so high, With all that art can teach, combin'd, Cannot avail the artist to supply The want of a religious mind. He finds it not a victory so hard To make the conquest of his art, As from vain worldly thoughts to guard The secret movements of his heart. Oh! sacred harmony! what lawless feet within thy precincts boldly tread! What vain and reckless triflers there we meet, Where all should feel a holy dread! Hence, wanton trills and sliding semitones, Light-finger'd runs and turns misplac'd, Bravuras, from the stage, and love-sick moans, With which God's worship is disgrac'd. But in this world of discord and of strife, A beam from Heav'n may reach us still, And give the organist both heart and life His arduous duties to fulfil. For when, obedient to his skilful hand, In full accord sweet voices rise, And holy zeal inspires the sacred band, He mounts in spirit to the skies. Yes, these are moments of excitement high, Which hours of misery repay; Which call big tears of rapture to his eye, and snatch him from this world away. |
| Pig and Rooster | 17 |
3
[Single Word at End of Phrases] this way and that way
[Initial Pivot Word - a]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
+14= 17
[Initial Pivot Word - and]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - of]
[Initial Pivot Word - and]
[Initial Pivot Word - and]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - to]
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
[Initial Pivot Word - to]
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Initial Pivot Word - his/her] |
On a warm sunny day, in the midst of July, A lazy young pig lay stretched out in his sty, Like some of his betters, most solemnly thinking That the best things on earth are good eating and drinking. At length, to get rid of the gnats and the flies, He resolv'd, from his sweet meditations to rise; And, to keep his skin pleasant, and pliant, and cool, He plung'd him, forthwith, in the next muddy pool. When, at last, he thought fit to arouse from his bath, A conceited young rooster came just in his path: A precious smart prig, full in vanity drest, Who thought, of all creatures, himself far the best. "Hey day! little grunter, why where in the world Are you going so perfum'd, pomatum'd, and curl'd? Such delicate odors my senses assail, And I see such a sly looking twist in your tail, That you, sure are intent on some elegant sporting; Hurra! I believe, on my life, you are courting; And that figure which moves with such exquisite grace, Combin'd with the charms of that soft-smiling face, In one who's so neat and adorn'd with such art, Cannot fail to secure the most obdurate heart. And much joy do I wish you, both you and your wife, For the prospect you have of a nice pleasant life." "Well, said, master Dunghill," cried Pig in a rage, "You're doubtless, the prettiest beau of the age, With those sweet modest eyes staring out of your head, And those lumps of raw flesh, all so bloody and red. Mighty graceful you look with those beautiful legs, Like a squash or a pumpkin on two wooden pegs. And you've special good reason your own life to vaunt, And the pleasures of others with insult to taunt; Among crackling fools, always clucking or crowing, And looking up this way and that way, so knowing, And strutting and swelling, or stretching a wing, To make you admired by each silly thing; and so full of your own precious self, all the time, That you think common courtesy almost a crime; As if all the world was on the look out To see a young rooster go scratching about." Hereupon, a debate, like a whirlwind arose, Which seem'd fast approaching to bitings and blows; 'Mid squeaking and grunting, Pig's arguments flowing; And Chick venting fury 'twixt screaming and crowing. At length, to decide the affair, 'twas agreed That to counsellor Owl they should straightway proceed; While each, in his conscience, no motive could show, But the laudable wish to exult o'er his foe. Other birds, of all feather, their vigils were keeping, While Owl, in his nook, was most learnedly sleeping: For, like a true sage, he preferred the dark night, When engaged in his work, to the sun's blessed light. Each stated his plea, and the owl was required To say whose condition should most be desired. It seem'd to the judge a strange cause to be put on, To tell which was better, a fop or a glutton; Yet, like a good lawyer, he kept a calm face, And proceeded, by rule, to examine the case; With both his round eyes gave a deep-meaning wink, And, extending one talon, he set him to think. In fine, with a face much inclin'd for a joke, And a mock solemn accent, the counsellor spoke -- "'Twixt Rooster and Roaster, this cause to decide, Would afford me, my friends, much professional pride. Were each on the table serv'd up, and well dress'd, I could easily tell which I fancied the best; But while both here before me, so lively I see, This cause is, in truth, too important for me; Without trouble, however, among human kind, Many dealers in questions like this you may find. Yet, one sober truth, ere we part, I would teach -- That the life you each lead is best fitted for each. 'Tis the joy of a cockerel to strut and look big, And, to wallow in mire, is the bliss of a pig. But, whose life is more pleasant, when viewed in itself, Is a question had better be laid on the shelf, Like many which puzzle deep reasoners' brains, And reward them with nothing but words for their pains. So now, my good clients, I have been long awake, And I pray you, in peace, your departure to take. let each one enjoy, with content, his own pleasure, Nor attempt, by himself, other people to measure." Thus ended the strife, as does many a fight; Each thought his foe wrong, and his own notions right. Pig turn'd, with a grunt, to his mire anew, And He-biddy, laughing, cried -- cock-a-doodle-doo. |
| Valentine | 3 |
1
[Initial Pivot Words] And ev'ry floweret And ev'ry heart
+2= 3
[Single Word Within Phrases] |
Now when the breath of coming Spring Steals fitful on the air; When faithful swains their true-loves sing, And birds begin to pair, In sportive mood, I thought to send A mimic valentine, To teaze awhile, my little friend, That merry heart of thine. I thought, with well-invented strain, The semblance to assume Of heart-struck beau or pining swain Fast hast'ning to the tomb. But anxious care soon chas'd away The frolic from my mind. Yet still, though mirth refuse to stay, True friendship's left behind. Then take kind wishes from a friend, In place of laughing mirth; Though well I know the gifts I send Are dullest things on earth. And yet, that sober thing, good will, When heartless glee is past, with peaceful joy the soul may fill, Unchanging to the last. Wearied of Folly's gaudy scene, How pleas'd the languid eye Rests on the meadow's quiet green, Or seeks the azure sky! Thus, bubbles mantling in the glass, That vanish ere they're quaff'd, May leave behind them, when they pass, A pure and tranquil draught. Now, young life's vista, to your sight, Of endless length appears; And countless visions of delight Dispel obtrusive fears. And youth and health around you bloom: The world's all bright and new; And ev'ry floweret sheds perfume; And ev'ry heart seems true. May favoring Heaven continue still These blessings to impart; And may it soon the hope fulfil That's next each fair-one's heart! And why should not each gentle breast Confess the general law; 'Tis Nature can instruct us best Whence truest bliss to draw. While woodland songsters plume their wings, With mutual love elate, Why should the sweetest bird that sings Still roam without a mate? |
| Wine Drinker | 16 |
6
[Initial Pivot Words] Whate'er I drink whate'er I eat
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
+10= 16
[Single Word at End of Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - and]
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
[Initial Pivot Word - and]
[Initial Pivot Word - negatives]
[Initial Pivot Word - to]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - negatives] |
I'll drink my glass of generous wine; And what concern is it of thine Thou self-erected censor pale, Forever watching to assail Each honest, open-hearted fellow Who takes his liquor ripe and mellow, And feels delight, in moderate measure, With chosen friends to share his pleasure? Without the aid of pledge or vow, I hold me temperate quite as thou; But that which virtue's course I deem Keeps clear from ev'ry rash extreme. If ev'ry good must be refus'd That may by mortals be abus'd, E'en abstinence may be excess, And prove a curse, when meant to bless. If by the notions of the throng I must be taught what's right and wrong, In pity's name, my sober friend, Say where would be my lesson's end? Each gives me his peculiar view Of what he holds as false or true. Whate'er I drink, whate'er I eat, Will some objector's censure meet. Whate'er I wont, whate'er I will, Meets with fierce opposition still. Coffee and tea affect the nerves; Who swallows wine, the devil serves; And he that dares a stronger drink Must soon to deep perdition sink. Another sneeringly maintains That water animalcul* contains; And, that to be from harm secure, We ne'er should drink it fresh and pure, But boil it till from life 'tis free, Then swallow it in punch or tea. One thinks it rational and right To take as guide your appetite. Another at all food's provok'd Save flinty crusts in water soak'd. And would I from opinion draw My moral or religious law, And, to suit all, a code complete, All contradictions there must meet. Woe to the man whose feeble mind No rooted principle can find; But, by the fashion of the day, From sober sense is led away; Afraid to follow Nature's laws, Lest he oppose the temperance cause; Quits common use and common sense, Lest some weak brother take offence; Yet pines in secret that he's bound To pass the cup untasted round Amid his friends who, conscience free, Indulge in harmless social glee; And oft will seek, nor seek in vain, Some subterfuge to break his chain; Find out disorders that require What's prompted only by desire; Will ask some doctor to prescribe; And turn his vow to jest and gibe. And 'tis, I fear, too true, alas! That oft th' intoxicating glass, In secret swallow'd, and by stealth, Degrades the mind and mars the health. Nor is it hid from any eye, That they who alcohol decry, Virginia's weed will chew or smoke, Or opium's treach'rous aid invoke, And raise for abstinence a clatter 'Mid clouds of smoke, and spit and spatter. Nor urge th' example we should show To those of an estate more low. His life the best example gives Who after Nature's dictates lives; Which, rightly view'd, are laws of God, And point to paths with safety trod. As well might you restrain the breeze That sweeps the main and bends the trees, Or bid the sun no mists excite, That cloud the sky and dim his light, As strive to make mankind agree To lead their lives from turmoil free. No lot so low, no mind so meek That will not for excitement seek. Nature in bounds unnatural pent Will find some new and dangerous vent. Awhile, the blood you may restrain; But, held too tight, 'twill burst the vein. If there be found no other sport, To feuds and strife will men resort; And, mid war's spirit-stirring notes, Amuse themselves with cutting throats. E'en they who blame the social cup Seek means to stir the spirits up; And various stimulants they find Wherewith to intoxicate the mind. Hence all the temperance bustle comes Of marshal'd files, with trumps and drums; Banners bright, processions long, Bands of music, speeches, song. Temperance meetings, temperance halls, Temperance concerts, temperance balls; All that keen politicians know Can blind you with a specious show, By which your temp'rance cause promoters Hope for a sturdy band of voters. These follies soon may pass away, And prove but fashions of a day, But there's one pageant meets my eyes, At which indignant feelings rise: Children I see paraded round, In badges deck'd, with ribbons bound, And banners floating o'er their head, Like victims to the slaughter led. Ye self-made legislators, how Presume ye to exact a vow Or ask a pledge, for aye to bind Childhood's unthinking, embryo mind? How can ye dare to fill a child, Whose spirits should be free and wild, And only love to run and romp, With vanity and pride and pomp? How can ye answer for the woe Which many a man, by you, shall know, Who dares the promise to renounce You bade him, when a child, pronounce, Yet still within his bosom keeps A gnawing worm that never sleeps? Come then, your glasses fill, my boys. Few and inconstant are the joys That come to cheer this world below; But nowhere do they brighter flow Than where kind friends convivial meet, 'Mid harmless glee and converse sweet. There's truth in wine, 'tis truly said. Ye then who feel a secret dread Your thoughts and feelings to declare, The influence of wine beware: In strong relief and colors true It brings both good and ill to view. Take salts, and seidlitz, and blue pills; Purge out your bile, that source of ills; And, till you have a purer soul, Touch not the truth-betraying bowl. But you who feel all right within; No secret malice, lurking sin; No passion dangerous to awake; Refuse not sometimes to partake The moderate glass, which doth impart New warmth and feeling to the heart; Commands more generous thoughts to rise, And adds more strength to friendship's ties; Gives witty thoughts an edge more keen, And bids retiring worth be seen; Gives to the soul of modest youth A bolder voice in cause of truth; By Prudence measur'd, serves t'assuage The dreary cold of wintry age; Impels the blood, with bolder rush, To lighten up th' indignant blush That throws its flashes o'er the ice Of selfish, calculating vice; And, in the mind that's pure and wise, Bids glowing thoughts and visions rise, That, beaming with unsullied light, Shun neither Reason's nor Religion's sight. If such thy virtues, generous wine! Thy pleasures will I ne'er resign While health remains, nor e'er refuse, In praise of thee, t' invoke the Muse. |
| Water Drinker | 26 |
11
[Initial Pivot Word - in] in cellar in garret
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - negatives]
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Repeated Words - Repetition with Connector]
[Initial Pivot Word - so]
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Initial Pivot Words]
+15= 26
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - and]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - negatives]
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Repeating Sounds]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - with]
[Initial Pivot Word - and]
[Initial Pivot Word - other] |
Away with all your wine-fill'd casks! To atoms shatter all your flasks; And waste the liquor, old and new, Extoll'd by Bacchus' wanton crew, 'Mid revelry and empty laugh, With senses maddening, as they quaff The potion that destroys All taste of real joys, And brings to earth the soaring mind, And leaves it dismal, drench'd and blind. To me you hold the glass in vain Of foaming, dancing, bright champaigne. Talk not to me of generous wine That grows along the banks of Rhine; Nor boast your well-assorted stock Of choice Madeira, Port, and Hock, Of Sherry, Burgundy and Claret, Close stow'd in cellar and in garret! Though drunkards may their worth extol, They're but the brood of Alcohol, That d*mon sent, in Heaven's ire, Breathing out infernal fire, And raging with intense desire The host of damned souls to swell, And rouse new uproar in the depths of hell. Water is the best of things! So sang a famous bard of old--- Then lead me to pure gushing springs, Or pebbly runnels clear and cold, Or margin of transparent lake, Or streamlet from the crystal pool. My burning thirst there let me slake; My parched lips there let me cool. Would you untainted pleasures know, Seek where the mountain waters flow; And near them dwell, and from them dip The only drink that wets your lip, Save milk fresh drawn from lowing herds, Or wholesome whey of milk-white curds. So shall the current in each vein Flow gently, and no gouty pain E'er rack your joints or cloud your brain; No morbid cravings vex your soul To quaff th' intoxicating bowl; No pois'nous fumes your breath inflame; No tremors agitate your frame; No goblin visions of the night E'er haunt your slumbers pure and light That softly leave your opening eyes, Like dews that in the sunbeam rise, And yield refreshment to the mind, Nor leave, when gone, a stain behind; No vertigos your brain perplex; No bursts of rage your bosom vex; No burning stimulants excite A false and morbid appetite, Forever raging after food That genders in the frame a brood Of ills that scourge us like a pest, At gorging surfeit's dire behest, From which no healing power can save The victims hast'ning to an early grave. Nor ever tempted to obey Unruly passion's lawless sway, The influence of Virtue's balm Shall give your soul a sacred calm; While bracing breath of mountain air Shall nerve your frame, fatigue to bear, And free your mind from boding care. Your stream of life shall even glide, Not with an ebbing, flowing tide; But to its final outlet go With quiet unperceived flow. To this pure element I'll raise, While breath endures, my notes of praise. Whether, to fertilize the plains, It soft descend in gentle rains, Or rush forth gaily from the hills, In torrents loud and gurgling rills, Or flow 'mid sands of purest white, Or shine o'er pebbles clean and bright, Or through the verdant meadow creep, Or swift from rock to rock it leap; Howe'er disguis'd by Nature's power, In chrystal ice or snowy shower; Whether to open sight reveal'd, Or in the ambient air conceal'd; In misty vapor if it rest Upon some lofty mountain's breast, In clouds bedeck the welkin blue, Or, heav'n-distill'd, descend in dew; In earth or sky, wherever found, The praise of water I'll resound. Of all the pure perennial springs With which our native land is blest, My mem'ry loves the Muse that sings Of one fair fount above the rest. He that would purer nectar drink Than Hebe e'er pour'd out to Jove, Must haste to Lehi's verdant brink, And there, in sultry season, rove. 'Mid shades he shall a rock perceive With bosom hollow'd to receive A secret spring; yet to the eye, At first, 'twill seem all void and dry, And not, until he draw more near, Shall he observe a pool so clear, So cool, so colorless and pure, That even Bacchus 'twould allure To leave his wine and favorite lass, And cool his palate with a glass. E'en Jove himself would give the nod, And brand it liquor for a god. Ye Nymphs and Naiads who preside O'er chrystal founts and streams that glide Throughout our land, dispensing wealth, Imparting beauty, life and health, Fain would I, in my verse prolong The honors that to you belong; But I am caution'd by the Muse One favorite from the rest to choose, To whom our native city owes The warmest eulogy that flows From orator's or poet's lips; 'Tis she who gay and sportive trips O'er Croton's rude and rocky banks, With lighter foot and wilder pranks Than woodland deer or mountain fawn Upspringing at the break of dawn. Crotona! be thy honor'd name, The theme of never-dying fame! And be thou Naiad, Nymph, or Sprite, Thy praise shall be my chief delight. The Muse once saw her, in a frolic hour, Disporting in a summer shower; From rock to rock, from ledge to ledge, Bounding along her river's edge, Laughing like a needless child, With looks as innocent and wild; And naught thrown o'er her graceful form To shield it from the raging storm, Save her own locks in many a fold, That, dripping, look'd like molten gold. With laugh suppress'd and half-clos'd eyes, She now would to the dropping skies Her face upturn and catch the rain That rudely pelted her in vain; Of storm, nor wet was she afraid; For in her element she play'd. With uprais'd arm and drooping hand, She, ever and anon, would stand, And watch the pearly drops descend From ev'ry taper finger's end; Or smile to see the hail rebound Light from her shoulder to the ground. And when the sun, with fervid ray, Had chas'd the wat'ry clouds away, She gaily spread her golden hair, And wav'd it in the drying air; Then o'er her temples graceful wound, With many a ringlet flowing round. And when the Muse she chanc'd to spy Beholding her with laughing eye, With rapid foot she touch'd the wave, And, at the signal which she gave, A wreathed mist the stream upsent, With shining dew-drops all besprent, That, like soft down with mingled pearls, Enwrap'd her limbs and flowing curls. And dancing spray, around her head, Such brilliant rainbow colors shed, That while in fitful mood they gleam'd, A bird of paradise she seem'd. In conscious beauty's happiest mood, A moment, she exulting stood; Then to the Muse she wav'd adieu, And in her grotto vanish'd from the view. Pure water! thus if thou dost flow With blessings to this world of woe; If such the powers that round thee throng, Be thou my only drink, my only song! |
| Gloves> | 3 |
2
[Parallel Phrase Construction, No Word Repetition, Similar] scorching suns withering air
[Initial Pivot Word - negatives]
+1= 3
|
Go envied glove, with anxious care, From scorching suns and withering air, Belinda's hand to guard. And let no folds offend the sight; Nor let thy seams, perversely tight, With hasty rents be marr'd. Nor fear the fate that oft attends On truest faith and long-tried friends--- With shame to be displac'd. You'll ne'er be own'd by menial hag; Nor e'er in form of button-bag Or thumb-stall be disgrac'd. Ere envious time shall bid thee rue The loss of this thy spotless hue That now excels the snow, Some swain, who for Belinda sighs, Shall bear thee off, a richer prize Than monarchs could bestow. By him, in triumph, thou'lt be borne, And in his faithful bosom worn, No! never thence to part. What earthly lot can thine excel? First on Belinda's hand to dwell, Then, near a constant heart. |
| Farewell | 13 |
8
[Word Against Phrase] [WAS: Repeated Words - More Complicated] Yes lovely tempter, yes
[Initial Pivot Word - and]
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Word Against Phrase]
+5= 13
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
[Parallel Phrase Construction, |
My ear still vibrates with thy sweet command; still, tremulous, I hold thy parting hand; I see thy smile still witching me away; Yet must this willing heart still disobey. Yes, lovely tempter, yes, I must forego A transient bliss that leaves a lasting woe. In shades I dwell where each severer Muse, And thought, and silence, spread their pallid hues. But when I bask beneath the melting rays Of joyous rosy light that round thee plays, At thought of these my solitary shades, A chilling horror all my frame pervades. The Graces that around thee lightly trip, The Joys that laugh upon thy ruby lip, The flutt'ring Loves that, watchful to beguile, Direct thy glance and lurk beneath thy smile, They mar my soul for contemplation's powers, For learning's rugged paths and weary hours, For deep research that strains the mental eye, and daring thoughts that soar beyond the sky. Glide on, sweet maid, in pleasure's gilded barque, Still blithe and tuneful as the morning lark; Still let the melting music of thy tongue Delight the old and captivate the young; Still, laughing, lead along the sportive train Whose breasts can feel no deep-devouring pain: But Oh! if e'er thou mark some gentle youth, In whose fond breast dwell loyalty and truth, Let not a conquest's momentary bliss Tempt thee to trifle with a heart like this. The breast which generous love and honor swell Is sacred as the fane where Angels dwell: The sacrilege that tempts its holy fire Fails not to rouse a guardian Spirit's ire. Go now, and may thy heaven-attemper'd mind, Ere long, some pure congenial spirit find; Some swift etherial soul, that shall delight To chase and take thee in thy wildest flight. Nor let thy flights and follies chase away All thought of him who pours this parting lay; whose bosom, mingled pains and tumults swell While thus he bids farewell -- a sad farewell! |
| Cholera | 17 |
7
[Initial Pivot Words] I would not bid I would not overcloud
[Initial Pivot Word - negatives]
[Repeated Words - Repetition with Connector]
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
+10= 17
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - negatives]
[Initial Pivot Word - his/her]
[Initial Pivot Word - the]
[Initial Pivot Word - negatives]
[Initial Pivot Word - his/her]
[Initial Pivot Word - other] |
Ye sacred Sisters; not for you, this strain: You heed no minstrelsy of earth-strung lyre; The softest siren notes would sound in vain To ears impatient for the heavenly choir. But who that toils through life's rough devious way, If some fair prospect open on his sight, Seeks not his fellow wanderer's steps to stay, And make them partners in his own delight? Turn then, all ye who, with indignant mind, Behold the vileness of this mortal state; Where craft and guile on ev'ry hand you find, With all the forms of selfishness and hate; Here let your misanthropic brow unbend, And warmest feelings of the heart expand; For, if to earth some gleams of Heaven descend, They sure must light upon this sacred band. And ye who sport beneath the golden beams That o'er youth's jocund morning shed their light; To whom the downward path of life still seems Immeasurably distant from the sight; Oh! think me not a censor cold and stern, A frowning foe to all that's bright and gay, If, for a moment, I would have you turn, And see these Sisters tread their holy way. I would not bid fierce superstition's power Bear down your minds, in sullen gloom to grope: I would not overcloud one radiant hour, Nor crush one rising bud of youthful hope: But stay awhile, nor all your moments waste For joys inconstant as the vernal sky. You here may deep, though silent pleasure taste, Whose impress on the soul shall never die. For how can earth present a goodlier scene, Or what can waken rapture more refin'd, Than dauntless courage, silent and serene, With maiden gentleness and love combin'd? Behold in yon receptacle of wo, Where victims of disease assembled lie, That gliding form, with noiseless footstep go, From couch to couch, her angel task to ply. She dwells 'mid sounds and sights of pain and death; The feeble plaint, the involuntary cry, The fierce convulsive throw, the fainting breath, The heaving groan, the deep-drawn burning sigh. Oh! child of frolic, in whose giddy brain Delusive Fancy's ever on the wing, Think you this holy maid knows naught but pain? That in her path no lovely flowrets spring? Gay visions round your pillow nightly throng; The morning ramble and the evening dance, The rout, the feast, the soul-entrancing song, The flatterer's whisper, and the lover's glance. Around her couch, no brilliant phantoms play; No airy spectre of past pleasure flies: But deeds of mercy which have mark'd the day Give tranquil slumber to her tear-stain'd eyes. They're precious gems, those tears that wet her cheek; Worth more than all the treasures earth can show. The noblest language of the heart they speak; From high and holy ecstacy they flow. Her feelings ye alone can understand Whose deeds have wak'd the sufferer's grateful prayer; Who've felt the pressure of the dying hand; Sweet recompense of all your pious care. No sad nor strange reverse her pleasures dread; Of time and chance, they mock the strong control. Her Heaven-aspiring virtues ever shed A cloudless light upon her peaceful soul. The baubles that command this world's esteem No resting place within her mind can gain: Like idle motes that cross the solar beam They serve to make her spirit's course more plain. Yes! such this sacred band; such peace is theirs; Unchang'd when days shine bright or tempests lower. Through life they pass, untainted by its cares; When death draws near, they gladly hail his power. And then, like birds that seek a better clime, On swift untiring wing their spirits rise, And gladly leave this turbid stream of time, To take their homeward progress through the skies. |
| Marriage | 10 |
1
[Initial Pivot Word - other] For better for worse
+9= 10
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - of]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - of] |
For you, my Margaret dear, I have no art To sing a jocund hymeneal strain: What rises strong and deep within the heart Must ever have some touch, at least, of pain. Nor know I that the bird of merriest lay Gives happiest omen in the bridal hour; That gaudy flowers, with brilliant tints and gay, May best adorn the sacred nuptial bower. But think me not of mind morose and sad, Where naught but sullen censure finds abode, If, in the midst of voices blithe and glad, I greet you with a song of graver mode. The glow on pleasure's cheek, it is not this That always tells where heartfelt joys appear; The hidden wellsprings of our purest bliss Are oft betoken'd by the gushing tear. I am not like the parent bird that tries To lure its young one from the fostering home; That gladly sees its new-fledg'd offspring rise On outspread wing, in distant shades to roam: Yet I were form'd in Nature's sternest mood, Did not my inmost soul with you rejoice, To see your lot amid the wise and good, The gentlest friends, the husband of your choice. Mysterious bond, that kindred souls unites! Great law of nature hallowed from above! Bless'd remnant of lost Eden's pure delights! The sum of all our bliss -- connubial love! Oh, holy flame! seraphic influence mild! Sweet incense, kindled by celestial ray! For ever warm the bosom of my child, And gently sooth her through life's rugged way! And you, my child, while yet your life is strong, While in the calm of peace your thoughts repose, Prepare for ills that to our state belong, And arm you to contend with numerous foes. For many ills unseen beset us round, And many foes within ourselves we raise. What sudden checks in smoothest paths are found! How few and fleeting are our golden days! At Hymen's altar when we plight our truth, For better and for worse, we thoughtless say; We dream of only good; the heart of youth Drives ev'ry fear of distant ills away. Till death do part, how gaily we repeat When joy and health are in their prime and strength: Life is a vista then whose borders meet; So endless, to our fancy, seems its length. But oh! how soon we pass this endless track, That, like perspective art, deludes our view: And, when we turn and on our path look back, How short the distance! and our steps how few! Trust not the gilded mists and clouds that rise Where flattering Hope and fickle Fancy reign; But turn from these, and seek with anxious eyes The clear bright atmosphere of Truth's domain. Ascend, full oft, her highest vantage ground, And look beyond the circuit of this earth. Review the things its narrow limits bound; And, with her guidance, learn to scan their worth. Nor think that with relentless stern regard She frowns on all our fleeting pleasures here. Believe me, no true joys by her are marr'd, But, in her light, more lovely they appear. And now, while youth and health are in their bloom, Why should you dread to look beyond this state? The traveller's pleasure knows no boding gloom Because the charms of home his steps await. Thus, like the compass, shall your tranquil soul, With one wish'd haven steady in its view, Though tempest rage and threat'ning billows roll, Rest even-pois'd, and point for ever true. |
| Southey | 22 |
9
[Initial Pivot Word - other] My spirit owns My circling blood
[Repeated Words - Simple Repetition]
[Initial Pivot Word - so]
[Repeated Words - Repetition with Connector]
[Initial Pivot Word - to]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - his/her]
[Repeated Words - Repetition with Connector]
[Repeated Words - Repetition with Connector]
+13= 22
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - a]
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Words]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Words]
[Repeated Words - Repetition with Connector]
[Initial Pivot Word - his/her]
[Repeated Word - Simple Repetition]
[Initial Pivot Word - his/her]
[Initial Pivot Word - to] |
Southey, I love the magic of thy lyre, That calms, at will, or sets the soul on fire; Whose changeful notes through ev'ry mode can stray, From deep-toned horror to the sprighliest lay. In Fancy's wilds with you I love to roam, Where all things strange and monstrous make their home. And when from wild imagination's dreams You wake to holy or heroic themes, My spirit owns the impulse of your strains; My circling blood flows freer through my veins. Yet not amid these wonders of your art I find the trembling key-note of my heart. 'Tis not the depth and strength of tone that bring Responsive murmurs from a neighboring string. Soft sympathetic sounds and tremors rise Only from chords attun'd to harmonize. 'Tis when you pour the simple plaintive strain That tells a fond bereaved parent's pain, 'Tis when you sing of dear ones gone to rest, I feel each fibre vibrate in my breast. Alas! too well, bereavement's pangs I know; Too well, a parent's and a husband's woe. To crown the num'rous blessings of my life, I had sweet children and a lovely wife. All seem'd so firm, so ordered to endure, That, fool! I fancied all around secure. Heav'n seem'd to smile; Hope whisper'd to my heart, These love-wrought ties shall never rudely part; But Time, with slow advance and gentle hand, Shall loosen, one by one, each sacred band. The old shall first drop peaceful in the tomb, And leave the young to fill their vacant room. Life's pleasures shall not wither at a blow, But quiet pass, with mild decay and slow. The buoyant joys of youth, so bright and fair, Like rainbow tints, shall mellow into air. But sad reality has prov'd how vain This faithless prospect of a dreaming brain. Death's icy hand, within three fleeting years, Has chang'd this scene of bliss to sighs and tears. One lovely innocent was snatch'd away -- A rose-bud, not half-open'd to the day -- I saw my wife, then to the grave descend, Beloved of my heart, my bosom friend. So interwoven were our joys, our pains, That, as I weeping follow'd her remains, I thought to tell her of the mournful scene -- I could not realize the gulph between. This was not all; there was another blow Reserv'd to put the finish to my woe. A sweet endearing creature, perish'd last, In youth's first spring, all childhood's dangers past -- Oh! awful trial of religion's power, To see a suffering innocent's last hour! But mark me well -- I would not change one jot Of Heaven's decrees, to meliorate my lot: Farewell to early bliss, to all that's bright! No thought rebels; I know, I feel 'tis right. Nor should I mourn as though of all bereft: Some transient pleasures, here and there, are left; Some short-liv'd flowers that in the forest bloom, And scatter fragrance in the settled gloom. I look not round, and peevishly repine, As though no other sorrow equall'd mine. I boast no proud preeminence of pain -- But oh! these spectres that infest my brain! My death-struck child, with nostrils breathing wide, Turning in vain, for ease, from side to side; The fitful flush that lit her half-closed eye, And burned her sunken cheek; her plaintive cry; Her dying gasp; and as she sank to rest, Her wither'd hands cross'd gently o'er her breast. My dying wife's emaciated form, So late, with youthful spirit fresh and warm. The deep, but noiseless anguish of her mind At leaving all she lov'd on earth behind. The silent tear that down her cheek would stray, And wet the pillow where resign'd she lay. Her stiffen'd limbs, all powerless and weak; Her clay-cold parting kiss; her pale damp cheek; Her awful prayer for mercy, at the last, Fainter and fainter, till her spirit pass'd -- The image of the next lov'd suffer too Is ever, ever present to my view. Her cease cough -- her quick and panting breath, With all the dreadful harbingers of death. No anxious mother watching at her side, To whisper consolation as she died. Oh! do not ask me why I thus complain To you a stranger, far across the main -- Bear with a bleeding heart that loves to tell Its sorrows, and on all pangs to dwell. A strange relief the mourner's bosom knows In clinging close and closer to its woes. In unheard plaints it consolation finds, And weeps and murmurs to the heedless winds. |
| From St. Nicholas | 6 |
1
[Initial Pivot Word - other] Good children good things
+5= 6
[Single Word Within Phrases]
[Initial Pivot Word - so]
[Initial Pivot Word - other]
[Initial Pivot Word - other] |
What! My sweet little Sis, in bed all alone; No light in your room! And your nursy too gone! And you, like a good child, are quietly lying, While some naughty ones would be fretting or crying? Well, for this you must have something pretty, my dear; And, I hope, will deserve a reward too next year. But, speaking of crying, I'm sorry to say Your screeches and screams, so loud ev'ry day, Were near driving me and my goodies away. Good children I always give good things in plenty; How sad to have left your stocking quite empty: But you are beginning so nicely to spell, And, in going to bed, behave always so well, That, although I too oft see the tear in your eye, I cannot resolve to pass you quite by. I hope, when I come here again the next year, I shall not see even the sign of a tear. And then, if you get back your sweet pleasant looks, And do as you're bid, I will leave you some books, Some toys, or perhaps what you still may like better, And then too may write you a prettier letter. At present, my dear, I must bid you good bye; Now, do as you're bid; and, remember, don't cry. |
| Valentine to Fanny | 3 |
1
[Parallel Phrase Construction, No Word Repetition, Similar] silent dews gentle showers
+2= 3
[Initial Pivot Word - and] |
Now let us hope, my Fanny dear, That Spring will not delay With smiling features to appear And chase the cold away. How welcome after frost and snow, And trees in ice all clad, To feel the Southern breezes blow, And see all nature glad! Then, birds return'd from climes remote, Their joyous carols blend, And seem to pour, each one, the note Of a returning friend. The silent dews and gentle showers And brooks from frost set free Then softly wake the sleeping flowers And blossoms of the tree. The roses spread their bosoms wide, And breathe the open air, While swelling rosebuds, Flora's pride, Keep forth all sweet and fair. But let them breathe on zephyr's wing The sweest breath they can, There's not a rosebud of the spring So sweet as little Fan. |
| To little Clem | 4 |
2
[Initial Pivot Word - and] And hopeful hearts and hearts forlorn
[Parallel Phrase Construction,
+2= 4
[Initial Pivot Word - and] |
While older people send their loves On Valentine's bright merry morn, And write of Cupids, darts and doves, And hopeful hearts and hearts forlorn, A merry child, who knows no art, To Clem, her jumping playmate boy, Sends wishes, that, like her's, his heart May ever dance with life and joy. Soon may the wintry winds be check'd, And southern breezes melt the snow, With wild-flowers all the meads be deck'd, And sweetest roses round you blow. What joy to see the blooming trees! To hear the birds exulting sing! To sniff the fragrant vernal breeze! And hail the glories of the Spring! |
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