Poem by James Weldon Johnson

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

1. The Color Sergeant
2. Answer to Prayer
3. Down by the Carib Sea. 1. Sunrise in the Tropics
4. Down by the Carib Sea. 6. Sunset in the Tropics
5. Down by the Carib Sea. 4. The Lottery Girl

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