This volume collects the poetry of Paul Laurence Dunbar, a significant figure in American literary history. Dunbar, a son of former slaves, navigated the challenges of racial prejudice while striving for artistic recognition and social change. His poems explore themes of hope, disappointment, and the complexities of African American identity in a segregated society. Dunbar's work, often characterized by its lyrical beauty and poignant observations, reflects the realities of his time and continues to resonate with readers today.