Color (Cullen)/Wisdom Cometh With the Years

by Countee Cullen

Wisdom Cometh With
the Years

NOW I am young and credulous,My heart is quick to bleedAt courage in the tremulous Slow sprouting of a seed.

Now I am young and sensitive, Man's lack can stab me through;I own no stitch I would not give To him that asked me to.

Now I am young and a fool for love, My blood goes mad to seeA brown girl pass me like a dove That flies melodiously.

Let me be lavish of my tears, And dream that false is true;Though wisdom cometh with the years, The barren days come, too.