Sonnet 11 Poem by John Florio

In the paths of life, so twisted and rough,
I've come across various multitudes;
Doom abounds in there, bitter and tough;
Life is ashore the sea of vicissitudes.
Bridges are building of torments and sins,
To cross the eternally burning ocean;
In avarices of wealth, even kiths and kins,
Are cruelly being shoved with passion.

To be happy and smiling, is a mere dream,
Frown, sadness and depression deface;
In the dreaming eyes, beads of tears gleam,
Of those who have fallen from grace.
Fading are virtues, and raising are vices,
By the hands of rascals and accomplices.