The New Crusade

Katharine Lee Bates

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LIFE is a trifle;
Honor is all;
Shoulder the rifle;
Answer the call.
"A nation of traders"!
We'll show what we are,
Freedom's crusaders
Who war against war.
Battle is tragic;
Battle shall cease;
Ours is the magic
Mission of Peace.
"A nation of traders"!
We'll show what we are,
Freedom's crusaders
Who war against war.
Gladly we barter
Gold of our youth
For Liberty's charter
Blood-sealed in truth.
"A nation of traders"!
We'll show what we are,
Freedom's crusaders
Who war against war.
Sons of the granite,
Strong be our stroke,
Making this planet
Safe for the folk.
"A nation of traders"!
We'll show what we are,
Freedom's crusaders
Who war against war.
Life is but passion,
Sunshine on dew.
Forward to fashion
The old world anew!
"A nation of traders"!
We'll show what we are,
Freedom's crusaders
Who war against war.

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Comments3
  • juliatullipan11

    Just read "The New Crusade" and it really got me thinking about how even in modern times, we continue to fight for peace and freedom. Such a powerful message, even with its simplicity!

    • lingaskin1914

      "Gladly we barter gold of our youth" stirs memories from my youth.

      • Brogan

        Wow, this poem really hit home for me. I felt the passion of the crusade against war deeply. The comparison of youth to gold was powerful. Makes studying almost enjoyable!