I Look Across the Ocean

I look across the ocean,
  And kneel upon the shore,
I look out seaward⁠—westward,
  My heart swells more and more.

I see the great new nation,
  New spirit and new scope
Rise there from the sea’s round shoulder⁠—
  A splendid sun of hope!

I see it and I tremble⁠—
  My voice is full of tears⁠—
America tread softly,
  You bear the fruit of years.

Tread softly⁠—you are pregnant
  And growing near your time⁠—