Alexander Pope

If Stupidity got us into this mess, then why can't it get us
out?"

If Stupidity got us into this mess, then why can't it get us
out?"

Envy will merit as its shade pursue,
But like a shadow, proves the substance true.

Envy will merit as its shade pursue,
But like a shadow, proves the substance true.

To hide the fault I see:
That mercy I to others show,
That mercy show to me.

To hide the fault I see:
That mercy I to others show,
That mercy show to me.

Poets heap virtues, painters gems, at will,
And show their zeal, and hide their want of skill.

Poets heap virtues, painters gems, at will,
And show their zeal, and hide their want of skill.

And binding nature fast in fate,
Left free the human will.

And binding nature fast in fate,
Left free the human will.