Classic Poem

Like lightning's flash,
Upon the foe
We burst, and laid
Their glories low!
Like mountain-floods
We on them came —
Like withering blast
Of scorching flame,
Like hurricane
Upon the sea, —
Shout — shout again —
Shout, WE ARE FREE !

We struck for God —
We struck for life —
We struck for sire —
We struck for wife —
We struck for home —
We struck for all
That man doth lose
By bearing thrall!
We struck 'gainst chains,
For liberty!
Now for our pains,
Shout, WE ARE FREE !

Give to the slain
A sigh — a tear; —
A curse to those
Who spoke of fear!
Then eat your bread
In peace; for now
The tyrant's pride
Is lying low!
His strength is broken —
His minions flee —
The VOICE hath spoken —
Shout, WE ARE FREE !