Penny Dreadfuls, 1812 · page 23 of 258
Psyche, and other poems — page 23: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
# Page Analysis This is a title page or prefatory poem for a work titled "PSYCHE." The page presents verse in a classical style rather than the sensational prose typical of penny dreadfuls. The poem addresses readers, asking them not to scorn lighter romantic verse, and dedicates the tale to those who have experienced love's "pains and dangers." It promises that the story of Psyche—apparently suffering trials for her lord—will resonate with readers who recognize their own "distress" and hardships in the narrative. The text appears to be an introduction or dedication rather than the main story itself.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
PSYCHE. LET not the rugged brow the rhymes accuse, Which speak of gentle knights and ladies fair, Nor scorn the lighter labours of the muse, Who yet, for cruel battles would not dare The low-strung chords of her weak lyre prepare; But loves to court repose in slumbery lay, _ To tell of goodly bowers and gardens rare, Of gentle blandishments and amorous play, And all the lore of love, in courtly verse essay, And ye whose gentle hearts in thraldom held ‘ The power of mighty Love already own, ) When you the pains and dangers have beheld, __ Which erst your lord hath for his Psyche known, For all your sorrows this may well atone, That he you serve the same hath suffered ; And sure, your fond applause the tale will crown In which your own distress is pictured, And all that weary way which you yourselves must tread, ey Conmicloooks. conn