The Suicide's Argument

by

Samuel Taylor Coleridge


Ere the birth of my life, if I wished it or no

No question was asked me—it could not be so!

If the life was the question, a thing sent to try

And to live on be YES; what can NO be? to die.


NATURE'S ANSWER


Is't returned, as 'twas sent? Is't no worse for the wear?

Think first, what you ARE! Call to mind what you WERE!

I gave you innocence, I gave you hope,

Gave health, and genius, and an ample scope,

Return you me guilt, lethargy, despair?

Make out the invent'ry;inspect, compare!

Then die—if die you dare!


(1811)



Go Back