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The Space Between: Literature and Culture 1914-1945Main MenuThe Space Between: Literature and Culture 1914–1945Volume 20 | 2024 | Searching for the Truly Strong Man: Masculinities 1914-1945CFP (Volume 23, 2027): War and Environment in the Space Between: A Collaborative ForumArchiveSubmission GuidelinesReviews and Review EssaysEditors | Editorial Board | Advisory CommitteeThe Space Between Society
Claude McKay’s Workers’ Dreadnought Poetry (1919-1920) | Re-Affirmation
Re-Affirmation (July 3, 1920. Signed as Hugh Hope)
I am downhearted not, although it seems The new birth is abortive in the West, And men are turning from long-cherished dreams Of world-wide freedom to ignoble rest.
I am discouraged not, although the foe— Shameless, like boars disporting in the mud Of their foul fen where nothing fair can grow— Wallow obscenely in the workers’ blood.
I am despairing not, though in our ranks, Hard-pressed and weak, are fools and fops and knaves, Who with their selfish aims and wanton pranks Would sell the Cause to be contented slaves.
What though I see the trusted and the tried For many a year turn traitor at the last, Go over to the seeming stronger side!— My heart feels sick, but I am not downcast.
The babe bursts from the mother’s womb in pain, The night is darkest just before the dawn, The heavens turn black to bless the earth with rain, I am disheartened not, I will keep on.