17th Century French poet Antoinette Deshoulières on how much better things were for writers in the 16th Century. Plus ça change amirite

Fine wit, in Marot's time, of all
The gifts from high, was thought the spoil;
It brought acquaintance with viceroys,
From time to time brought nobler joys
And, what's more, got the pot to boil.

The era's gone away, a droll
Refrain one's debts could overhaul;
Nowadays for finance none employs
	Fine wit. 

For silver, writers, fool-like, toil,
To pour their pint or fill their bowl;
Happy at least to have the choice!
Fill less their bellies more their boss!
Dame Ignorance dealt well, to foil
	Fine wit.

(my translation)