Answered Extempore By Dr. Swift

by Jonathan Swift — a poem card from Justes Mots

Swift's couplet addresses a woman with the observation that while both are mortal, she faces additional vulnerability due to her sex. This brief, philosophical meditation on mortality and gender reflects Swift's characteristic blend of somber reflection and social commentary. It is suitable for contemplation of human fragility and mortality.

We both are mortal; but thou, frailer creature,
May'st die, like me, by chance, but not by nature.…

Themes: sympathy · grief · reflection