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On The Gallows

By Jonathan Swift

Topics: classic

There is a gate, we know full well,     That stands 'twixt Heaven, and Earth, and Hell,     Where many for a passage venture,     Yet very few are fond to enter:     Although 'tis open night and day,     They for that reason shun this way:     Both dukes and lords abhor its wood,     They can't come near it for their blood.     What other way they take to go,     Another time I'll let you know.     Yet commoners with greatest ease     Can find an entrance when they please.     The poorest hither march in state     (Or they can never pass the gate)     Like Roman generals triumphant,     And then they take a turn and jump on't,     If gravest parsons here advance,     They cannot pass before they dance;     There's not a soul that does resort here,     But strips himself to pay the porter.

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"There is a gate, we know full well,..."

Exploring the themes of classic, Jonathan Swift delivers a powerful performance in "On The Gallows"... ### Why We Love This Line At Linespedia, we believe that poetry is the ultimate sanctuary for the soul...

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Author:Jonathan Swift

"There is a gate, we know full well,..." by Jonathan Swift

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Jonathan Swift

About Jonathan Swift

Jonathan Swift (1667–1745) was an Irish satirist, essayist, and poet. Best known for "Gulliver's Travels," his poetry includes "A Description of a City Shower" and "Verses on the Death of Dr. Swift." His sharp wit and moral indignation made him one of the greatest satirists in English.

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