Page:Negro poets and their poems (IA negropoetstheirp00kerl).pdf/270

248 In spite of the snares all around her; Her marvelous pluck has prevailed And kept her home together— When even her men have failed. What of her sweet, simple nature? What of her natural grace? Her richness and fullness of color, That adds to the charm of her face? Is there a woman more shapely? More vigorous, loving and true? Yea, wonderful Negro woman The honor I’d give to you. Andrea Razafkeriefo.

My little one of ebon hue, My little one with fluffy hair, The wide, wide world is calling you To think and do and dare. The lessons of stern yesterdays That stir your blood and poise your brain Are etching out the simple ways By which you must attain. An echo here, a memory there, An act that links itself with truth; A vision that makes troubles air And toils the joy of youth. These be your food, your drink, your rest, These be your moods of drudgeful ease, For these be nature’s spur and test And heaven’s fair decrees.