William Strode (1602-1645). 'Come, heavy souls, oppressed with the weight'. Andrew Macphail, comp. 1916. The Book of Sorrow

Andrew Macphail, comp. The Book of Sorrow. 1916.

III. Oblivion
‘Come, heavy souls, oppressèd with the weight’

By William Strode (1602–1645)


From ‘The Floating Island’ COME, heavy souls, oppressèd with the weight
Of crimes, or pangs, or want of your delight;
Come, drown in Lethe’s sleepy lake
Whatever makes you ache;
Drink health from poisoned bowls;	5
Breathe out your cares, together with your souls!
Cool Death ’s a salve,
Which all may have.
There ’s no distinction in the grave.
Lay down your loads before Death’s iron door;	10
Sigh, and sigh out! Groan once, and groan no more!