LXXVI
Reading edition
Ye have heard how Marsyas, In the folly of his pride, Boasted of a matchless skill,— When the great god’s back was turned;
How his fond imagining 5 Fell to ashes cold and grey, When the flawless player came In serenity and light.
So it was with those I loved In the years ere I loved thee. 10 Many a saying sounds like truth, Until Truth itself is heard.
Many a beauty only lives Until Beauty passes by, And the mortal is forgot 15 In the shadow of the god.