The Flowers of Evil by Charles P. Baudelaire, Poetry, European, French

Charles Baudelaire opens The Flowers of Evil with a poem entitled "Benediction," and it's special stuff -- but of course it is, we're talking about a poem by Charles Baudelaire, for god's sake.

When by the changeless Power of a Supreme Decree

The poet issues forth upon this sorry sphere,

His mother, horrified, and full of blasphemy,

Uplifts her voice to God, who takes compassion on her.

"Ah, why did I not bear a serpent's nest entire,

Instead of bringing forth this hideous Child of Doom!

Oh cursd be that transient night of vain desire

When I conceived my expiation in my womb!"