The Cry of Humanity

Oh what a weary pilgrimage I've pacedIn learning only that I've nothing learned!What will o' th' wisps and shadows have I chased!For what unworthy objects have I yearned!How vainly searched for truth in falsehood's mines!What trust I've given only to be betrayed!What pagan altars ta'en for holy shrines!What vain fantastic prayers have I prayed!What mirage-like illusions have I cherished!In what blind alleys hoped a path to find!My faith, my love, my hope, how have they perished!For what imagined vices have I pined!And in all ways what skill I've shown (poor elf!)In finding means to plague and curse myself!