EPIGRAM

AGAINST

ZOILUS A classic archetype of a cynical, malicious critic.

Envious one, who has always followed to violate virtue,
Always to be in the teeth of another, like skin.
These are not balanced on the scales of just anyone,
These have been approved by the Sages of the past.
They are not to be sought with a lash, rashly granted by anyone,
Therefore, do no harm here, or teach better things.
Gelria original: Gelria, the province of Guelders is my fatherland, but Venlo original: Venloa is my own land,
Know that I speak to myself only by the law given.
Yet do not turn your face away from the Pitchy Rod,
But read, what, perhaps, may itch, will be within,
Nor with a gloomy grimace cast your censure upon it,
Unless the page has been read to its conclusion by you.

A small woodcut decorative tailpiece featuring a central floral or foliate motif with symmetrical scrollwork.