Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, IT MIGHT HAVE BEEN, by ELLA WHEELER WILCOX


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

IT MIGHT HAVE BEEN, by                 Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography
First Line: We will be what we could be. Do not say
Last Line: Whatever our deserts.
Alternate Author Name(s): Wilson, Robert, Mrs.
Subject(s): Climbing; Life; Truth


We will be what we could be. Do not say,
"It might have been, had not or that, or this."
No fate can keep us from the chosen way;
He only might, who is.

We will do what we could do. Do not dream
Chance leaves a hero, all uncrowned to grieve.
I hold, all men are greatly what they seem;
He does, who could achieve.

We will climb where we could climb. Tell me not
Of adverse storms that kept thee from the height
What eagle ever missed the peak he sought?
He always climbs who might.

I do not like the phrase, "It might have been!"
It lacks all force, and life's best truths perverts:
For I believe we have, and reach, and win,
Whatever our deserts.





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