Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, MAGNANIMITY BAFFLED, by HERMAN MELVILLE


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

MAGNANIMITY BAFFLED, by                 Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography
First Line: Sharp words we had before the fight
Last Line: He snatched it -- it was dead.
Subject(s): American Civil War; U.s. - History


"Sharp words we had before the fight;
But -- now the fight is done --
Look, here's my hand," said the Victor bold,
"Take it -- an honest one!
What, holding back? I mean you well;
Though worsted, you strove stoutly, man;
The odds were great; I honor you;
Man honors man.

"Still silent, friend? can grudges be?
Yet am I held a foe? --
Turned to the wall, on his cot he lies --
Never I'll leave him so!
Brave one! I here implore your hand;
Dumb still? all fellowship fled?
Nay, then, I'll have this stubborn hand!"
He snatched it -- it was dead.





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