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The Awakening

By Paul Laurence Dunbar

Topics: classic

I did not know that life could be so sweet,     I did not know the hours could speed so fleet,     Till I knew you, and life was sweet again.     The days grew brief with love and lack of pain--     I was a slave a few short days ago,     The powers of Kings and Princes now I know;     I would not be again in bondage, save     I had your smile, the liberty I crave.

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"I did not know that life could be so sweet,..."

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Author:Paul Laurence Dunbar

"I did not know that life could be so sweet,..." by Paul Laurence Dunbar

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Paul Laurence Dunbar

About Paul Laurence Dunbar

Paul Laurence Dunbar (1872–1906) was an American poet and novelist who was one of the first African-American writers to gain national prominence. His poems in dialect—including "When Malindy Sings"—and standard English explore Black life with humor, pathos, and dignity.

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