The Poetry Corner

Youths Agitations

By Matthew Arnold

When I shall be divorced, some ten years hence, From this poor present self which I am now; When youth has done its tedious vain expense Of passions that for ever ebb and flow; Shall I not joy youths heats are left behind, And breathe more happy in an even clime? Ah no! for then I shall begin to find A thousand virtues in this hated time. Then I shall wish its agitations back, And all its thwarting currents of desire; Then I shall praise the heat which then I lack, And call this hurrying fever, generous fire, And sigh that one thing only has been lent To youth and age in common discontent