The Noble Nature by Ben Jonson (1572-1637)

The Noble Nature

by Ben Jonson (1572-1637)

     It is not growing like a tree

     In bulk, doth make man better be;

Or standing long an oak, three hundred year,

To fall a log at last, dry, bald, and sere:

          A lily of a day         

          Is fairer far in May,

     Although it fall and die that night—

     It was the plant and flower of Light.

In small proportions we just beauties see;

And in short measures life may perfect be.