To All Dark Leaders

-- for Dr. W.E.B. DuBois

I met him just before the vultures got him --
I met him just before his day was done;
Around his head and shoulders gleamed about him
The dull-red glory of the setting sun.

And then, men blamed -- who should give praise -- if any
Remembering the brilliance of his light --
Remembering the hope he brought to many,
Lost, wandering in dark chaos and black night.

Remember this, O men who lead us forward --
Who steer our course into the rising sun --
We shall reward you with the name of "Coward!"
And give to other hands the prize you won.