The Rebel

By Bernard Gilbert

I live in music, in poetry, and in the life reflective.

I seek intellectual boldness in man, I worship mental swiftness in women.

I have no love for lawyers, priests, schoolmasters, or any dogmatic men.

I am with poor against rich, labour against employer, women against men; I fight beside all strikers, mutineers, and rebels.

I welcome foes; I desire criticism.

I loathe prejudice, either social or national; I repudiate all claims.

I demand freedom of action and leisure for reflection.

Facing Death, I would say:‘ I have tasted all, tried all, dared all, suffered all, and I repent nothing.’