Belinda

Alexander Pope (1688–1744)

From “The Rape of the Lock,” Canto II. ll. 7–18.

ON her white breast a sparkling cross she wore,

Which Jews might kiss, and Infidels adore,

Her lively looks a sprightly mind disclose,

Quick as her eyes, and as unfixed as those:

Favors to none, to all she smiles extends:

Oft she rejects, but never once offends.

Bright as the sun, her eyes the gazers strike,

And, like the sun, they shine on all alike.

Yet, graceful ease and sweetness void of pride,

Might hide her faults, if belles had faults to hide;

If to her share some female errors fall,

Look on her face, and you ’ll forget them all.