Fragments of a Lost Gnostic Poem of the 12th Century (Melville 1891)

  

Found a family, build a state,

The pledged event is still the same:

Matter in end will never abate

His ancient brutal claim.

       *    *   *    *

Indolence is heaven’s ally here,

And energy the child of hell:

The Good Man pouring from his pitcher clear

But brims the poisoned well. 

Herman Melville 1891