Inviting a Friend to Supper: Ben Johnson

"Inviting a Friend to Supper" the speaker explains that "both my poor house and I/ Do equally desire your company"( lines 1 and 2). He describes the events of the night and the food they will be able to eat, but he also believes that people should indulge themselves (with food in this case) but be aware of the future. He states: "Yet shall you have to rectify your palate/ An olive, capers, or some better salad/ Ushering the mutton; woth a short-legged hen" (lines 9-11) and the speaker goes on about dessert, wine etc. He also explains that they will read a book. And like most hosts they just go over what is happening that evening. However, not only are they lucky to be eating these various foods when others are starving, but the speaker also touches on that lavish feast should be blessed but the future should be kept an eye on and aware. "Shall make us sad next morning or affright/ The liberty that we'll enjoy tonight" (lines 41 and 42). The speaker is obviously not worried about seizing the day but rather looking out for tomorrow. He does not seem to care about indulgence either and maybe that is perhaps to enjoy the moment and the blessing of this feast. Sometimes people seem to be torn down from their past mistakes and these elements should be avoided and rather used to better one's future and enjoy the life that they are given.