Chloris Properly Rebuked

by Eugene Field — a poem card from Justes Mots

A witty, satirical poem in French literary style rebuking an aging woman named Chloris for behaving like a young flirt instead of adopting the dignified conduct appropriate to her age and circumstances. Field's clever use of French phrases and classical allusions creates a good-natured mockery of both vanity and social pretension.

Chloris, my friend, I pray you your misconduct to forswear;
The wife of poor old Ibycus should have more savoir faire.
A woman at your time of life, and drawing near death's door,
Should not play with the girly girls, and think she's en rapport.

What's good enough for Pholoe you cannot well essay;
Your daughter very properly courts the jeunesse dor�e,--
A Thyiad, who, when timbrel beats, cannot her joy restrain,…

Themes: birthday · friendship · encouragement · reflection