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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


THE DILETTANTE: A MODERN TYPE by PAUL LAURENCE DUNBAR

First Line: HE SCRIBBLES IN PROSE AND VERSE
Last Line: AND KINDLY PAYS EXPENSES.

HE scribbles some in prose and verse,
And now and then he prints it;
He paints a little, -- gathers some
Of Nature's gold and mints it.

He plays a little, sings a song,
Acts tragic roles, or funny;
He does, because his love is strong,
But not, oh, not for money!

He studies almost everything
From social art to science;
A thirsty mind, a flowing spring,
Demand and swift compliance.

He looms above the sordid crowd --
At least through friendly lenses;
While his mamma looks pleased and proud,
And kindly pays expenses.



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