Another, At Holyhead [1] (Epigrams On Windows)

by Jonathan Swift — a poem card from Justes Mots

Swift complains humorously to Neptune about being stranded at Holyhead, far from home after arduous travel, invoking the god to grant him passage across the sea. This witty travel poem combines genuine discomfort with classical allusion and ironic piety. It resonates with anyone experiencing travel delays or homesickness.

O Neptune! Neptune! must I still
Be here detain'd against my will?
Is this your justice, when I'm come
Above two hundred miles from home;
O'er mountains steep, o'er dusty plains,
Half choked with dust, half drown'd with rains,
Only your godship to implore,
To let me kiss your other shore?…

Themes: love · new-baby · wedding · friendship