An American Poet

Historian! you who celebrate bygones!

I do not tell the usual facts, proved by records and documents,
What I tell (talking to every born American) requires no further proof
than he or she who will hear me, will furnish, by silently
meditating alone;
I press the pulse of life that has hitherto seldom exhibited itself,
But has generally sought concealments (the great pride of man,
In himself),
I illuminate feelings, faults, yearnings, hopes-I have come at last,
No more ashamed nor afraid;
Chanter of Personality, outlining a history yet to be,
I project the ideal man, the American of the future.