Sonnet 15
When I consider every thing that growsHolds in perfection but a little moment,That this huge stage presenteth nought but showsWhereon the stars in secret influence comment;When I perceive that men as plants increase,Cheered and cheque'd even by the self-same sky,Vaunt in their youthful sap, at height decrease,And wear their brave state out of memory;Then the conceit of this inconstant staySets you most rich in youth before my sight,Where wasteful Time debateth with Decay,To change your day of youth to sullied night; And all in war with Time for love of you, As he takes from you, I engraft you new.
It's hard, tricking you into the prickingof a fertile fair maiden; for tickingTime can still necroseev'rything that growsexcept verse — so I keep limericking.