A New Kind of Literary Pulse

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Classics 19th Century 20th Century African American Literature  1 min

The Plains of Peace

Olivia Ward Bush-Banks

Olivia Ward Bush-Banks

American author, poet and journalist of African-American and Montaukett Native American heritage, she celebrated both of her heritages in her work. After being noticed by Paul Laurence Dunbar, she published two volumes of poetry and became a member of the early Harlem Renaissance.

Again my fancy takes its flight, And soars away on thoughtful wing, Again my soul thrills with delight, And this the fancied theme, I sing, From Earthly scenes awhile, I find release, And dwell upon the restful Plains of Peace. The Plains of Peace are passing fair, Where naught disturbs and naught can harm, I find no sorrow, woe or care, These all are lost in perfect calm, Bright are the joys, and pleasures never cease, For those who dwell on the Plains of Peace. No scorching sun or blighting storm, No burning sand or desert drear, No fell disease or wasting form, To mar the