On Vital Statistics

Ill fares the land to hast'ning ills a prey (1)
Where wealth accumulates and men decay.'
But how much more unfortunate are those
Where wealth declines and population grows!

(1)This line is execrable; and I note it.
I quote it as the faulty poet wrote it.

Hilaire Belloc

Hilaire Belloc was an Anglo-French writer and historian, known for his poetry, essays, and children's books. Born on July 27, 1870, in France, he became a British citizen and was a prominent figure in early 20th-century British literature. Belloc was a devout Catholic, which significantly influenced his writings. He was a close friend of G.K. Chesterton and shared similar views on social and political issues. Belloc passed away on July 16, 1953, leaving behind a rich legacy of literary works.

Hilaire Belloc

The Catholic Sun

Hilaire Belloc, Simple Poetry

Tarantella

Hilaire Belloc, Simple Poetry

Because My Faltering Feet

Hilaire Belloc, Simple Poetry

The Scorpion

Hilaire Belloc, Simple Poetry

English

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Who with a little cannot be content,
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These times strike monied worldlings with dismay:
Even rich men, brave by nature, taint the air
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I said of laughter: it is vain.
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Ill fares the land, to hastening ills a prey,
Where wealth accumulates and men decay.
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More discontents I never had
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