AS long as vigorous discontent Goads us from torpid ease, or worse, I thank the power that sent Struggle, the savior of the universe. As long as things are torn and hurled In this implacable unrest, I shall embrace the world With joyful fierceness and undying zest. I shall grow strong with every hurt; The scorn, the anger will achieve Only a glad, alert Desire to question boldly—and believe. My eager faith shall keep me set Against despair or careless hate, Knowing this smoke and sweat Is forging something violent—and great! | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...AFTER TU FU (THEY SAY YOU'RE STAYING IN A MOUNTAIN TEMPLE) by MARVIN BELL THE GENERAL PUBLIC by STEPHEN VINCENT BENET O DREAMS, O DESTINATIONS by CECIL DAY LEWIS PROVING by GEORGIA DOUGLAS JOHNSON TO JOHN BROWN by GEORGIA DOUGLAS JOHNSON PRAYER AT SUNRISE by JAMES WELDON JOHNSON |