27-8. These two lines explain how the fleeting good mocks him. His idea of what will bring him happiness is always changing. When one thing is attained he finds no real satisfaction in it, but is constantly looking forward to some new thing which he thinks may bring him happiness.
32. pensive. Meditative.
34. a hundred realms. Exaggeration for effect.
38. Should the proud man remain ungrateful and dissatisfied?
39-40. Should the scholar, puffed up with his knowledge, look with scorn on the petty pleasures of these humble people?
41-2. The scholar may try to pretend that he takes no pleasure in these things, but man is petty and enjoys these petty pleasures.
48. dress. Cultivate.
50. Creation’s heir. In apposition with the pronoun value of mine.
51-8. Note the points of comparison involved in the simile. What are the alternate possessions of the miser? Of the poet?
64. pretend. Claim.