Paul Laurence Dunbar Poems

Paul Laurence Dunbar was born in June 1872 and is considered one of the most important American poets of his time. He published numerous important poems, short stories, and more during his lifetime. His first collection of short stories was titled Folks From Dixie. His work is known for its unique use of language and conversational tone. Read more about Paul Laurence Dunbar.

The Quilting

by Paul Laurence Dunbar

‘The Quilting’ by Paul Laurence Dunbar is a very short love poem that reveals the speaker’s growing affection for a woman named Dolly.

'The Quilting' by Paul Laurence Dunbar is an excellent example of the poet's use of realism and the theme of love in his poetry. However, this verse contains far less meaning than some of his other poems and is not among his most popular works. Still, it is a very pleasant poem to read.

Beyond the Years

by Paul Laurence Dunbar

‘Beyond the Years’ by Paul Laurence Dunbar is a three section poem in which the speaker describes what one will, and will not, experience after death.

Disappointed

by Paul Laurence Dunbar

‘Disappointed’ by Paul Laurence Dunbar is an inspirational poem in which Dunbar depicts an old man working hard in the last years of his life and losing everything he strove for. 

Harriet Beecher Stowe

by Paul Laurence Dunbar

Dunbar was inspired by Harriet Beecher Stowe’s novel, Uncle Tom’s Cabin, as it was one of the first works of literature to shed light on the brutality and cruelty of slavery.

Life’s Tragedy

by Paul Laurence Dunbar

‘Life’s Tragedy’ by Paul Laurence Dunbar considers the elements of life that create tragedy and suffering. The speaker asserts that missing out on perfect love and the perfect song leads to an “accursed” life.

The Lily of the Valley

by Paul Laurence Dunbar

‘The Lily of the Valley’ is a poem written by the American poet, Paul Laurence Dunbar about the lily flower. The poet describes the flower through the use of vibrant imagery and symbolism.

The Poet

by Paul Laurence Dunbar

‘The Poet’ by Paul Laurence Dunbar depicts how the poet saw himself and the elements of his work that gained popularity during his lifetime.

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