The Poetry Corner

Epitaph On Voltaire

By Thomas Oldham

Here lies interr'd Voltaire; no letter'd name Can boast more brilliant, more extensive fame. On him what various gifts did heaven confer! Poet, historian, wit, philosopher; But ah! peruse it, Christian, with a tear The chief of infidels lies buried here: Lament the abuse of such rare talents given; Lament such dire ingratitude to heaven.