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1872–1906

THE AWAKENING

Paul Laurence Dunbar

I did not know that life could be so sweet, I did not know the hours could speed so fleet, Till I knew you, and life was sweet again. The days grew brief with love and lack of pain —

I was a slave a few short days ago, The powers of Kings and Princes now I know; I would not be again in bondage, save I had your smile, the liberty I crave.

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THE AWAKENING · Paul Laurence Dunbar · Poetry Cove