Madrigal 22. In centre of these Stars of Love

Barnabe Barnes (1569?–1609)

IN centre of these Stars of Love,

(’Bove all conceits in man’s capacity,)

An orient jet which did not move,

To CUPID’s chariot wheel, made for the naffe,

Was fixed; which could, with mild rapacity,

Of lighter lovers, draw the lighter chaff.

This, shadow gives to clearer light,

In which, as in a mirrold, there was framed

For those (which love’s conditions treat upon)

A glass which should give semblance right

Of all their physiognomies impassionate.

Those hearts, which tyrant Love doth beat upon,

May here behold, what CUPID works!

Yielding in it, that figure fashionate

Which in the jetty mirror lurks.