Plain Sermons
I saw a man - and envied him beside - Because of this world's goods he had great store; But even as I envied him, he died, And left me envious of him no more. I saw another man - and envied still - Because he was content with frugal lot; But as I envied him, the rich man's will Bequeathed him all, and envy I forgot. Yet still another man I saw, and he I envied for a calm and tranquil mind That nothing fretted in the least degree - Until, alas! I found that he was blind. What vanity is envy! for I find I have been rich in dross of thought, and poor In that I was a fool, and lastly blind For never having seen myself before!
AI analysis available. Enable JavaScript to interact.
About this line
"I saw a man - and envied him beside -..."
James Whitcomb Riley's contribution to classic is further solidified by the brilliance found in "Plain Sermons"... ### Why We Love This Line At Linespedia, we believe that poetry is the ultimate sanctuary for the soul...