Skip to content
1871–1938

IV

James Weldon Johnson

“Lottery, lottery, Take a chance at the lottery? Take a ticket, Or, better, take two;

Who knows what the future May hold for you? Lottery, lottery, Take a chance at the lottery?”

Oh, limpid-eyed girl, I would take every chance, If only the prize Were a love-flashing glance

From your fathomless eyes. “Lottery, lottery, Try your luck at the lottery? Consider the size

Of the capital prize, And take tickets For the lottery. Tickets, señor? Tickets, señor?

Take a chance at the lottery?” Oh, crimson-lipped girl, With the magical smile, I would count that the gamble

Were well worth the while, Not a chance would I miss, If only the prize Were a honey-bee kiss

Gathered in sips From those full-ripened lips, And a love-flashing glance From your eyes.

Cookies on Poetry Cove

We use cookies to remember your language preference and — only with your consent — to learn how Poetry Cove is used. You can change your mind any time.
IV · James Weldon Johnson · Poetry Cove