Epitaph On The Tombstone Of A Child

 By Aphra Behn

Editor's Note: Aphra Behn (July 10, 1640 - April 16, 1689) was a prolific dramatist of the Restoration and was one of the first English professional female writers. Her writing took part in the amatory fiction genre of British literature. Our veneration for loved ones who have passed can occur any time, not just during special remembrances throughout the year. We hope you use this poem by Aphra Behn to help you remember.


This Little, Silent, Gloomy Monument,
Contains all that was sweet and innocent ;
The softest pratler that e'er found a Tongue,
His Voice was Musick and his Words a Song ;
Which now each List'ning Angel smiling hears,
Such pretty Harmonies compose the Spheres;
Wanton as unfledg'd Cupids, ere their Charms
Has learn'd the little arts of doing harms ;
Fair as young Cherubins, as soft and kind,
And tho translated could not be refin'd ;
The Seventh dear pledge the Nuptial Joys had given,
Toil'd here on Earth, retir'd to rest in Heaven ;
Where they the shining Host of Angels fill,
Spread their gay wings before the Throne, and smile.