Nancy Wertsch: Music
4. On the Use of Alcohol (Sayings of the Wise)
(C-159.)
Proverbs 23:29-35
Who has woe? Who has sorrow?
Who has strife? Who has bloodshot eyes?
Those who linger over wine.
Do not gaze at wine when it is red,
when it sparkles in the cup.
In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.
Your eyes will see strange sights and your mind imagine confusing things.
You will be like one sleeping on the high seas,
Lying on top of the rigging.
“They hit me, but I am not hurt.
They beat me, but I don't feel it.”
Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises?
Those who linger over wine!