A Little Poetry

Sometimes in the middle of all the carnage, a little poetry helps to clear one’s vision. After all, the American Civil War was about some pretty defining things, a few of which are still undergoing examination.

 

 

 

 

 

To America

 How would you have us, as we are?

Or sinking ‘neath the load we bear?

Our eyes fixed forward on a star?

Or gazing empty at despair?

 

Rising or falling? Men or things?

With dragging steps or footsteps fleet?

Strong, willing sinews in your wings?

Or tightening chains about your feet?

 

“To America” by James Weldon Johnson was first published in the 1917 issue of The Crisis, a magazine founded by W. E. B. DuBois to be the premier voice for civil rights.