The Complete Poems of Paul Laurence Dunbar/The Dilettante: A Modern Type

THE DILETTANTE: A MODERN TYPE

He scribbles some in prose and verse, And now and then he prints it; He paints a little,—gathers some Of Nature's gold and mints it.

He plays a little, sings a song, Acts tragic roles, or funny; He does, because his love is strong, But not, oh, not for money!

He studies almost everything From social art to science; A thirsty mind, a flowing spring, Demand and swift compliance.

He looms above the sordid crowd— At least through friendly lenses; While his mamma looks pleased and proud, And kindly pays expenses.