Classic and Contemporary Poetry
BOOKER T. WASHINGTON, by PAUL LAURENCE DUNBAR Poem Explanation Poet's Biography First Line: The word is writ that he who runs may read Last Line: Like the keen prow of some on-forging ship. Subject(s): African Americans - History; Washington, Booker T. (1856-1915); Black Heritage | ||||||||
THE word is writ that he who runs may read. What is the passing breath of earthly fame? But to snatch glory from the hands of blame -- That is to be, to live, to strive indeed. A poor Virginia cabin gave the seed, And from its dark and lowly door there came A peer of princes in the world's acclaim, A master spirit for the nation's need. Strong, silent, purposeful beyond his kind, The mark of rugged force on brow and lip, Straight on he goes, nor turns to look behind Where hot the hounds come baying at his hip; With one idea foremost in his mind, Like the keen prow of some on-forging ship. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...FAR MEMORY: 1. CONVENT by LUCILLE CLIFTON FAR MEMORY: 4. TRYING TO UNDERSTAND THIS LIFE by LUCILLE CLIFTON FURY; FOR MAMA by LUCILLE CLIFTON SOMETHING LIKE A SONNET FOR PHILLIS MIRACLE WHEATLEY by JUNE JORDAN THE TRAVELLER AT THE SOURCE OF THE NILE by FELICIA DOROTHEA HEMANS A BANJO SONG by PAUL LAURENCE DUNBAR |
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