1.
In every human Beast, God has implanted a Principle, which we call Love of Freedom; it is impatient of Oppression, and pants for Deliverance.
Phillis Wheatley
In every individual, the Divine has embedded a sentiment, which we refer to as Ardor for Liberty; it cannot tolerate Domination, and longs for Liberation.
2.
The world is a severe schoolmaster, for its frowns are less dangerous than its smiles and flatteries, and it is a difficult task to keep in the path of wisdom.
Phillis Wheatley
The world is a stringent mentor, for its reproofs are less menacing than its compliments and adulations, and it is a laborious effort to remain on the path of sagacity.
3.
Through thickest gloom look back, immortal shade,
On that confusion which thy death has made.
Phillis Wheatley
Gaze back, undying specter,
On the disarray bequeathed by thy passing.
4.
Remember, Christians, Negroes, black as Cain, /May be refin'd and join th' angelic train.
Phillis Wheatley
Recall, believers, people of color, as dark-skinned as Cain, /May be purified and ascend to the celestial host.
5.
Since my return to America my Master, has at the desire of my friends in England given me my freedom.
Phillis Wheatley
Since my return to America, my Master has, at the behest of my acquaintances in England, granted me emancipation.
6.
Thou didst, in strains of eloquence refin'd, Inflame the soul, and captivate the mind.
Phillis Wheatley
You eloquently stirred the spirit and enraptured the intellect.
7.
Proceed, great chief, with virtue on thy sideThy every action let the goddess guide.
Phillis Wheatley
Venture ahead, noble leader, with righteousness in your heart; Let the divine being direct all of your deeds.
8.
Aurora hail, and all the thousand dies,
Which deck thy progress through the vaulted skies:
The morn awakes, and wide extends her rays,
On ev'ry leaf the gentle zephyr plays;
Harmonious lays the feather'd race resume,
Dart the bright eye, and shake the painted plume.
Phillis Wheatley
9.
May be refined, and join the angelic train.
Phillis Wheatley
May refine one's self and ascend to the heavenly ranks.
