Democracy

by Langston Hughes

Democracy will not come

Today, this year

Nor ever

Through compromise and fear.

I have as much right 

As the other fellow has

To stand

On my two feet 

And own the land.

I tire so of hearing people say, 

Let things take their course.

Tomorrow is another day.

I do not need my freedom when I'm dead.

I cannot live on tomorrow's bread.

Freedom

Is a strong seed

Planted

In a great need.

I live here, too.

I want freedom

Just as you.