The Poetry Corner

Astrophel and Stella - Sonnet XVI

By Philip Sidney (Sir)

In nature, apt to like, when I did see Beauties which were of many carrets fine, My boiling sprites did thither then incline, And, Loue, I thought that I was full of thee: But finding not those restlesse flames in mee, Which others said did make their souls to pine, I thought those babes of some pinnes hurt did whine, By my soul iudging what Loues paine might be. But while I thus with this young lion plaid, Mine eyes (shall I say curst or blest?) beheld Stella: now she is nam'd, neede more be said? In her sight I a lesson new haue speld. I now haue learnd loue right, and learnd euen so As they that being poysond poyson know.