Fragments of a Lost Gnostic Poem of the Twelfth Century

by Herman Melville

Herman Melville

I
Found a family, build a state,
The pledged event is still the same:
Matter in end will never abate
His ancient brutal claim.
II

Indolence is heaven's ally here,
And energy the child of hell:
The Good Man pouring from his pitcher clear
But brims the poisoned well.





Last updated January 14, 2019