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Page thumbnail for The Spirit Of Democracy
Poem October 26, 1869

The Spirit Of Democracy

Woodsfield, Monroe County, Ohio

What is this article about?

A didactic poem using the metaphor of a race to encourage perseverance, honest effort, and patience in life, repeating the refrain that it is better late than never to succeed.

Clipping

OCR Quality

75% Good

Full Text

BETTER LATE THAN NEVER
Life is like a race where some succeed,
While others are beginning;
'Tis luck in some, in others speed,
That gives an early winning
But if you chance to fall behind
Ne'er slacken your endeavor
Just keep this wholesome truth in mind
"Tis better late than never."
And if you keep ahead 'tis well,
But never trip your neighbor
'Tis noble when you can excel
By honest, patient labor;
But if you are outstripped at last,
Press on as bold as ever;
Remember, though you are surpassed
"Tis better late than never."
Ne'er lag or fix your eyes on least
Of victory o'er a brother
But while you strive your utmost
Deal truly with a brother,
Wrest not your advantage, do your best
And be true to your purpose ever
And if you fail to do the rest.
"'Tis better late than never!"
Choose well the path in which you run.
Success by double dealing wrong.
Then, though the last, who gaze 'tis won
Your crown is worth the wearing.
Take heart not if you're left behind,
Nor ever slack your endeavor,
But ever keep this truth in mind-
"'Tis better late than never"

What sub-type of article is it?

Song

What themes does it cover?

Moral Virtue

What keywords are associated?

Perseverance Honesty Life Race Patient Labor Better Late Than Never

Poem Details

Title

Better Late Than Never

Form / Style

Rhymed Quatrains With Refrain

Key Lines

"Tis Better Late Than Never." Life Is Like A Race Where Some Succeed, But Never Trip Your Neighbor Deal Truly With A Brother,

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