Classic Poem

Here on this barren fragment unreclaimed
Of coral reef o'ersurged by tidal brine,
Shifting each fluctuant hour its border-line,
I did not think to hear, loud-clarion-famed,
Or whispered to my solitude unblamed,
Rumor of Politics; but o'er the shine
Of watery waste, and continental fine,
Sounded the Nations and great names were named!
Then I rejoiced with an exceeding awe
And the religious rapture patriots know,
Who in their love of country love the Race,
Enjoining equal privilege and law!
A Citizen! a Man! how can I go
Away from Home, beyond my People's place?