Beauty is the bastard of the world

Let not the lovely get in your eyes
Take not the touch of silk to be so wise
Have no part of hope, or let comfort dress you
Or pleasure seek, drawn upon a smile

Try not to please, allow no part to show
Never bend the tempting bow
While others eat do not reach
Pierce no hide, the wine will not flow

The cold comes creeping, wrap it with your soul
For nothing starts that would not end
All that softly comes will sharply pretend

Before the breeze will break your back
Look down your face and make steps aside
Go blindly forth and seek not your place
Look not for caress, nor ask for touch

Make no breath of life in this waiting state
And hope, that beauty may pass without a trace