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1869–1935

Demos I

Edwin Arlington Robinson

All you that are enamored of my name And least intent on what most I require, Beware; for my design and your desire, Deplorably, are not as yet the same.

Beware, I say, the failure and the shame Of losing that for which you now aspire So blindly, and of hazarding entire The gift that I was bringing when I came.

Give as I will, I cannot give you sight Whereby to see that with you there are some To lead you, and be led. But they are dumb Before the wrangling and the shrill delight

Of your deliverance that has not come, And shall not, if I fail you — as I might.

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Demos I · Edwin Arlington Robinson · Poetry Cove