Memoir and Poems of Phillis Wheatley/The Slave's Complaint

by Phillis Wheatley

THE SLAVE'S COMPLAINT.

Am I sadly cast aside,
On misfortunes's rugged tide?
Will the world my pains deride
Forever?

Must I dwell in Slavery's night,
And all pleasure take its flight,
Far beyond my feeble sight,
Forever?
Worst of all, must hope grow dim,
And withhold her cheering beam?
Rather let me sleep and dream
Forever!

Something still my heart surveys,
Groping through this dreary maze;
Is it Hope?—then burn and blaze
Forever!

Leave me not a wretch confined,
Altogether lame and blind—
Unto gross despair consigned,
Forever!

Heaven! in whom can I confide?
Canst thou not for all provide?
Condescend to be my guide
Forever!

And when this transient life shall end,
Oh, may some kind, eternal friend
Bid me from servitude ascend,
Forever!