Phillis Wheatley

When first thy pencil did these beaties give And breathing figures learnt from thee to live

— Phillis Wheatley

Creation smiles in various beauty gayWhile day to night, and night succeeds day

— Phillis Wheatley

Some view our sable race with scornful eye, May be refin'd, and join th' angelic train.

— Phillis Wheatley

But how is Mneme dreaded by the race, Hers the worst tortures that our souls can know.

— Phillis Wheatley

But, Madam, let your grief be laid aside, While Death reigns tyrant o'er this mortal shore.

— Phillis Wheatley

Celestial choir! enthron'd in realms of light, Columbia's scenes of glorious toils I write. While freedom's cause her anxious breast alarms, She flashes dreadful in refulgent arms.

— Phillis Wheatley

Thy ev'ry action let the goddess guide. A crown, a mansion, and a throne that shine, With gold unfading, WASHINGTON! be thine.

— Phillis Wheatley