To All Dark Leaders

       -- for Dr. W.E.B. DuBois

By Marcus B. Christian

I met him just before the vultures got him --

I met him just before his day was done;

Around his head and shoulders gleamed about him

The dull-red glory of the setting sun.

And then, men blamed -- who should give praise -- if any

Remembering the brilliance of his light -- 

Remembering the hope he brought to many,

Lost, wandering in dark chaos and black night.

Remember this, O men who lead us forward -- 

Who steer our course into the rising sun --

We shall reward you with the name of "Coward!"

And give to other hands the prize you won.

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