Robert W. Service
Set to music by David Parry 1993. Poem date unknown; Service was actively writing 1905-1955; published in Later Collected Verses 1965 so probably written later in his life
Finest Kind: https://ianrobb1.bandcamp.com/track/in-praise-of-alcohol
https://ianrobb1.bandcamp.com/track/in-praise-of-alcohol
Of vintage wine I am a lover; To drink deep would be my delight; If ’twere not for the bleak hangover I’d get me loaded every night; I’d whoop it up with song and laughter – If ’twere not for the morning after. For though to soberness I’m given It is a thought I’ve often thunk: The nearest that is Earth to Heaven Is to get sublimely drunk; Is to achieve divine elation By means of generous libation. Alas, the wine-cups claim their payment And as the price if often pain, if we could sense what morning grey meant We never would get soused again; Rather than buy a hob-nailed liver I’m sure that we’d abstain for ever. Yet how I love the glow of liquor, As joyfully I drink it up! hoping that unto life’s last flicker With praise I’ll raise the ruby cup; And let me like a jolly monk Proceed to get sublimely drunk.