 | Jones Very : The Complete Poems |  |
The Rights of Man
With narrow view each state its own would claim,Forgetful of the greater common good;
Forgetful of its heritage of fame,
When they the mightiest foe on earth withstood.
The Rights of Man seem now a short-lived dream,
333
Of boastful orators the annual theme,
Or glory of which poets vainly sing.
Thus we our selfish ends too oft pursue,
Blinded by avarice, or lust of power;
Seeking our own, yet to ourselves untrue,
Unfaithful to our Country, and the hour;
Nor know that in the nation's good each state,
Whate'er it boasts, alone is truly great.
Poem No. 838; c. 15 March 1861
| Jones Very : The Complete Poems | |