Shake-speares Sonnets, Never before Imprinted/Sonnet 15
For other versions of this work, see Sonnet 15 (Shakespeare).
15When I consider euery thing that growesHolds in perfection but a little moment.That this huge stage presenteth nought but showesWhereon the Stars in secret influence comment.When I perceiue that men as plants increase,Cheared and checkt euen by the selfe-same skie:Vaunt in their youthfull sap, at height decrease,And were their braue state out of memory.Then the conceit of this inconstant stay,Sets you most rich in youth before my sight,Where wastfull time debateth with decayTo change your day of youth to sullied night,And all in war with Time for loue of youAs he takes from you, I ingrast you new.