Anne Rutledge

 Out of me unworthy and unknown 
The vibrations of deathless music; 
'With malice toward none, with charity for all.' 
Out of me the forgiveness of millions toward millions, 
And the beneficient face of a nation 
Shining with justice and truth. 
I am Anne Rutledge who sleep beneath these weeds, 
Beloved in life of Abraham Lincoln, 
Wedded to him, not through union, 
But through separation. 
Bloom forever, O Republic, 
From the dust of my bosom!

Form: Dramatic Monologue Comments

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Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace