TYRANT of Man! Imperious Fate!
  I bow before thy dread decree;
Nor hope in this uncertain state
  To find a seat secure from thee.

Life is a dark, tumultuous stream,
  With many a care and sorrow foul;
Yet thoughtless mortals vainly deem
  That it can yield a limpid bowl.

Think not that stream will backward flow,
  Or cease its destined course to keep;
As soon the blazing spark shall glow
  Beneath the surface of the deep.

Believe not Fate, at thy command,
  Will grant a meed she never gave;
As soon the airy tower shall stand
  That's built upon a passing wave.

Life is a sleep of threescore years;
  Death bids us wake and hail the light;
And man, with all his hopes and fears,
  Is but a phantom of the night.