Joseph Samuel Reed, "Paul Laurence Dunbar (In Memoriam)" (1906)
The greatest singer of his race
His Lyre, a self-made instrument,
But 'twas not commonplace;
It murmured sweetly his folk lore
In cadence all could understand;
But then, again, his lyre could soar
To heights most truly grand.
He loved his race, and sought to raise
It to a nobler, higher plane;
Such was the burden of his praise
Aye! even the refrain,
One needs but to recall his verse
That gladdens Ethiop's sorrowings
Aye! one may say the universe --
Tis' "When Malindy Sings."
His "Strength of Gideon" is a strength
To many halting brothers 'ways;
Its fruitage will appear at length
By bringing helpful, peaceful days.
Although the Poet has gone hence
His cheerful songs with us remain
At once aglorious recompense--
He has not lived in vain.
Sullivan, Indiana
Published in Colored American Magazine, April 1906