Artsongs: George Washington (Stuart)

The Old General

His top coat speaks of by-gone days,

Of fashion long ago.

Perhaps his eyes could see ahead,

Or was his heart unsure?

His countenance is now at ease

With battles left behind.

Yet will his mind find peace or rest

As new frontiers awake?

He lends a steady gaze to all

Who dare to dream anew.

They take his visage as a sign

That greatness is at hand.

Still, in those eyes there is some doubt,

For who can know the end?

So many trials are yet to come

Before the dream is clear.

                                                 ~ CK

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Image: Portrait of George Washington at the National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Artist: Gilbert Stuart 1755-1828)
Date: 1795
Medium: Oil on canvas

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