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"When I Shall Die" – Poem by Lewis H. Latimer

Publication
This is a typewritten poem titled "When I Shall Die," authored by Lewis H. Latimer. The poem expresses Latimer’s thoughts on the afterlife, legacy, and guiding influence his soul will have after death. He envisions his soul becoming a star, offering light, hope, and guidance to those left behind. The poem conveys themes of comfort, remembrance, and eternal presence, reflecting Latimer’s philosophical and spiritual perspective. The document is printed on aged, slightly worn paper with three punched holes along the left margin, suggesting it was once part of a binder or personal collection.

Lewis H. Latimer was not only a prominent inventor and engineer, known for his contributions to electric lighting and telecommunication, but also a poet and intellectual. This poem showcases his literary talents, providing insight into his personal beliefs and reflections on mortality. It reveals a deeply humanistic and hopeful outlook, emphasizing his desire to continue guiding and comforting others even after death. This poem was likely written for personal reflection or shared with family and friends, illustrating Latimer’s philosophical and artistic side beyond his scientific achievements.

The Lewis H. Latimer Papers (1870-1929, 1972) [QPL Subgroup]Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]

Title and Author: "WHEN I SHALL DIE." by L. H. Latimer. Poem Text: When I shall die, my soul will be a star Set in the depths of heaven’s boundless blue, And I will ever watch this earth afar, And note the good, the tender, and the true. When I shall die my soul will be a star; To smile in answer to some wanderer’s eye; To look in sadness on all strife and war, And twinkle sympathy to those who sigh. To those who weep I’ll lend my softest light, And send sweet hope down on a tender beam; To those who love I’ll give a gleam more bright Than radiates from out a poet’s dream. I’ll guide the sailor o’er the treacherous sea, And bring his bark safe to the foreign strand, And warn when dangers threaten on his lee, And smiling, greet him when he’s safe on land. I’ll peep into the windows of each home, Where sorrow bows the loving parent’s head, And bring sweet tidings of the loved who roam, And whisper messages from dear ones dead. When I shall die my soul will be a star, And I shall watch when the bright sun is gone, And beam most brightly when the day is far, And fade into the sunlight of the waking morn. When I shall die my soul will be a star, To smile on earth through ages yet to come; To guide and comfort all the souls that are And welcome others to their final home.