Xanthippe
When he could speak, the mild philosopher observed:
“You seem to take much pleasure telling me, forever,
My faults and foibles. I have never claimed to be
A flawless paragon; not even in those days –
So long ago they seem! – when we were courting lovers
And I thought you personified perfection: dared
To tell you so. (No doubt that was an error, too!).
Since I am so much in the wrong, (if not alone
In that), isn’t there still some failing known to you
Which has not yet been mentioned?.
But enough of moan
And groan. Listen: I’m doing my best to deliver
You your vision of myself; though it’s not my own!.
Now, I’ve important work to do which must not be deferred;
So let me have a little peace. And don’t be so absurd!.
