To America + 

How would you have us, as we are? + 

Or sinking ’neath the load we bear? + 

Our eyes fixed forward on a star? + 

Or gazing empty at despair? + 

Rising or falling? Men or things? + 

With dragging pace or footsteps fleet? + 

Strong, willing sinews in your wings? + 

Or tightening chains about your feet? + 