The Suicide’s Argument

Ere the birth of my life, if I wished it or no
No question was asked me – it could not be so!
If the life was the question, a thing sent to try
And to live on be yes; what can no be? To die.

NATURE’S ANSWER
Is’t returned, as ’twas sent? Is’t no worse for the wear?
Think first, what you are! Call to mind what you were!
I gave you innocence, I gave you hope,
Gave health, and genius, and an ample scope,
Return you me guilt, lethargy, despair?
Make out the invent’ry ; inspect, compare !
Then die –if die you dare !

SAMUEL TAYLOR COLERIDGE