Robert Burns (1759–1796). Poems and Songs.
The Harvard Classics. 1909–14.

353 . Poem on Sensibility

SENSIBILITY, how charming,

Dearest Nancy, thou canst tell;

But distress, with horrors arming,

Thou alas! hast known too well!

Fairest flower, behold the lily

Blooming in the sunny ray:

Let the blast sweep o’er the valley,

See it prostrate in the clay.

Hear the wood lark charm the forest,

Telling o’er his little joys;

But alas! a prey the surest

To each pirate of the skies.

Dearly bought the hidden treasure

Finer feelings can bestow:

Chords that vibrate sweetest pleasure

Thrill the deepest notes of woe.