First ever African-American female poet published, Phillis Wheatley was kidnapped in West Africa when she was 8 years old and brought to Boston on a slave ship. There, she was purchased by a tailor called John Wheatley to be his wife’s servant. The Wheatleys acknowledged Phillis' talents and allowed her to learn to read and write. Her first book was published in London in 1773.

I. Adieu, New-England's smiling meads, Adieu, th' flow'ry plain: I leave thine op'ning charms, O spring, And tempt the roaring main. II. In vain for me the flow'rets rise, And boast their gaudy pride, While here beneath the northern skies I mourn for health deny'd. III. Celestial maid of rosy hue, Oh let me feel thy reign! I languish till thy face I view, Thy vanish'd joys regain. IV. Susannah mourns, nor can I bear To see the crystal shower Or mark the tender falling tear At sad departure's hour; V. Not regarding can I see Her s