Quote#Desire
As we live by the Muses, it is but a Gratitude in us to encourage…
Quote byJohn Gay · 1685–1732
Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: The Beggar's Opera (1728), "Player", Introduction.
English (original)
As we live by the Muses, it is but a Gratitude in us to encourage Poetical Merit wherever we find it. The Muses, contrary to all other Ladies, pay no Distinction to Dress, and never partially mistake the Pertness of Embroidery for Wit, nor the Modesty of Want for Dulness. Be the Author who he will, we push his Play as far as it will go. So (though you are in Want) I wish you success heartily.
— John Gay
More from John Gay
All in the Downs the fleet was moor'd.
Life is a jest; and all things show it. I thought so once; and now I know it.
So comes a reckoning when the banquet's o'er,— The dreadful reckoning, and men smile no more.
'Twas when the seas were roaring With hollow blasts of wind, A damsel lay deploring, All on a rock reclined.
My lodging is on the cold ground, And hard, very hard, is my fare, But that which grieves me more Is the coldness of my dear.
Adieu, she cried, and waved her lily hand.