Poetry Explorer


Classic and Contemporary Poetry


AFTERGLOW by GEORGIA DOUGLAS JOHNSON

Poet Analysis

First Line: THROUGH YOU, I ENTERED HEAVEN AND HELL
Last Line: TO LIVE IT ALL AGAIN!
Subject(s): AFRICAN AMERICANS - WOMEN; MEMORY;

Through you I entered heaven and hell,
Knew rapture and despair,
I flitted o'er the plains of earth
And scaled each shining stair:
Drank deep the waters of content,
And drained the cup of gall,
Was regal and was impotent,
Was suzerain and thrall.

Now, by Reflection's placid pool
On evening's mellowed brow,
I smile across the backward way
And pledge anew my vow;
For every glancing, golden gleam,
I offer gladly—pain!
And I would give a thousand world
To live it all again!



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