It, and Other Stories Quotes

“TO ELSIE




I


Crown the heads of better men

With lilies and with morning-glories!

I'm unworthy of a pen—

These are Bread-and-Butter stories.

Shall I tell you how I know?

Strangers wrote and told me so.


II


He who only toils for fame

I pronounce a silly Billy.

I can't dine upon a name,

Or look dressy in a lily.

And—oh shameful truth to utter!—

I won't live on bread and butter.


III


Sometimes now (and sometimes then)

Meat and wine my soul requires.

Satan tempted me—my pen

Fills the house with open fires.

I must have a horse or two—

Babies, oh my Love—and you!”
― Gouverneur Morris, It, and Other Stories