Classic Southern Literature

1676 to 1923

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African-American Poem

by James Weldon Johnson

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O, Black and Unknown Bards

Written Text

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 pace or footsteps fleet?
Strong, willing sinews in your wings?
Or tightening chains about your feet?
………………………..