WIST Quotations

Wheatley, Phyllis -- Letter (1774-02-11) to Samson Occom

Dave — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 22:53:04 +0000

In every human Breast, God has implanted a Principle, which we call Love of Freedom; it is impatient of Oppression, and pants for Deliverance.

Phyllis Wheatley (1753–1784) African-American poet, manumitted (1773) enslaved person [also "Phillis" and/or "Wheatly"]
Letter (1774-02-11) to Samson Occom

Regarding slavery. First printed in the Connecticut Gazette (1774-03-11) through Rev. Occom, her longtime friend.

Franklin, Benjamin -- Poor Richard (1734 ed.)

Dave — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 17:21:27 +0000

From a cross Neighbour, and a sullen Wife,
A pointless Needle, and a broken Knife;
From Suretyship, and from an empty Purse,
A Smoaky Chimney and a jolting Horse;
From a dull Razor, and an aking Head,
From a bad Conscience and a buggy Bed;
A Blow upon the Elbow and the Knee,
From each of these, Good L—d deliver me.

Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790) American statesman, scientist, philosopher, aphorist
Poor Richard (1734 ed.)