William Cowper on War
1731–1800 England
← All quotes by William Cowper
5 quotes
He stands erect; his slouch becomes a walk;
He steps right onward, martial in his air,
His form and movement.
The Task (1785)
But war's a game, which, were their subjects wise,
Kings would not play at.
The Task (1785)
Folly such as yours,
Grac'd with a sword, and worthier of a fan,
Has made what enemies could ne'er have done.
The Task (1785)
O for a lodge in some vast wilderness,
Some boundless contiguity of shade;
Where rumor of oppression and deceit,
Of unsuccessful or successful war,
Might never reach me more.
The Task (1785)
Hence jarring sectaries may learn
Their real interest to discern;
That brother should not war with brother,
And worry and devour each other.