Apollion monologue (Act 1) — Vondel's Lucifer

Thou comprehendest well: no better cause I wish as seed for mutiny, to set 430 The court against its subjects, throng 'gainst throng. For each among us is inclined to guard That honor, rank, and lawful privilege Unto him given by the Omnipotent Ere He created man, an after-thought. The celestial palace is our heritage. To the Spirits, who above float on their wings, Who, incorporeal, therefore, ne'er can sink, This place is more adapt than to the race Of Earth, too sluggish far to choose against 440 Their nature these clear bows. Here shines the day Too bright, too strong. Their eyes cannot endure That splendid light, upon whose glow we gaze. Then let man keep in his native element, As other creatures do. Let him suffice The bounds of his terrestrial Paradise, Where the rising and the setting of the sun And moon divide the months and form the year. Let him observe, in their wide-circling round, The crystal spheres. Let Eden's pleasant fruits 450 Content him, and its flowers that breathe perfume. To range from East to West, from North to South: Let this his pastime be. What needs he more? We'll ne'er bring homage to an earthly lord. Thus I resolve. Canst thou more briefly yet This meaning state?