The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35 - Oh might those sighes and teares
O! MIGHT those sighs and tears return again Into my breast and eyes, which I have spent, That I might in this holy discontent Mourn with some fruit, as I have mourn’d in vain. In mine idolatry what showers of rain 5 Mine eyes did waste? what griefs my heart did rent? That sufferance was my sin, I now repent; ’Cause I did suffer, I must suffer pain. Th’ hydroptic drunkard, and night-scouting thief, The itchy lecher, and self-tickling proud 10 Have the remembrance of past joys, for relief Of coming ills. To poor me is allow’d No ease; for long, yet vehement grief hath been Th’ effect and cause, the punishment and sin.