When I went to look at what had long been hidden, A jewel laid long ago in a secret place, I trembled, for I thought to see its dark deep fire -- But only a pinch of dust blew up in my face. I almost gave my life long ago for a thing That has gone to dust now, stinging my eyes -- It is strange how often a heart must be broken Before the years can make it wise. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...THE MOUNTAIN by HAYDEN CARRUTH THE LITANY OF THE DARK PEOPLE by COUNTEE CULLEN SPOKEN AT A CASTLE GATE by DONALD (GRADY) DAVIDSON MATE (2) by GEORGIA DOUGLAS JOHNSON DOWN BY THE CARIB SEA: 3. TEESTAY by JAMES WELDON JOHNSON SPOON RIVER ANTHOLOGY: DOW BRITT by EDGAR LEE MASTERS |