Classic Poem

It was a noble Roman,
In Rome's imperial day,
Who heard a coward croaker,
Before the Castle, say:
" They're safe in such a fortress;
There is no way to shake it! "
" On — on! " exclaimed the hero,
"I'll find a way, or make it!"

Is Fame your aspiration?
Her path is steep and high;
In vain he seeks her temple,
Contents to gaze and sigh:
The shining throne is waiting,
But he alone can take it
Who says, with Roman firmness
"I'll find a way, or make it!"

Is Learning your ambition?
There is no royal road;
Alike the peer and peasant
Must climb to her abode:
Who feels the thirst of knowledge
In Helicon may slake it,
If he has still the Roman will
"To find a way, or make it!"

Are Riches worth the getting?
They must be bravely sought;
With wishing and with fretting
The boom cannot be bought:
To all the prize is open,
But only he can take it
Who says, with Roman courage,
"I'll find a way, or make it!"

In Love's e has ever been,
That victory crowns the valiant, —
The brave are they who win:
Though strong is Beauty's castle,
A lover still may take it,
Who says, with Roman daring,
"I'll find a way, or make it!"