The Vain Pursuit
	32 But if in vain, down on the stubborn floor Of Earth, and up to Heav'n's unopening Door, You gaze To-day, while You are You---how then To-morrow, You when shall be You no more? 33 Waste not your Hour, nor in the vain pursuit Of This and That endeavour and dispute; Better be jocund with the fruitful Grape Than sadden after none, or bitter, Fruit. previous              next
Vedder's note: As in the case of the alchemist who endeavours to extract the secret of life from the living plant, heedless the while of his own life, which is passing away like the smoke from his furnace.