Keep A Pluggin' Away By Paul Laurence Dunbar

This recitation of Keep A Pluggin' Away is held with sincere admiration, gratitude, and solidarity for the life and work of Paul Laurence Dunbar (1872-1906). Paul Laurence Dunbar self-published this poem in "Oak and Ivy" while he was working as an elevator operator in Dayton, Ohio. Dunbar wrote 600 poems, 12 poetry books, five novels, four short story volumes, as well as musical lyrics including "In Dahomey" (1903) – the first all Black American musical produced on Broadway. Dunbar's writings examined themes of racial injustice, identity, and the experiences of Black Americans. May his legacy be honored and upheld in peace and strength. Keep A Pluggin' Away is a light to keep close when the heart is weary - it is a reminder of what is within and what is ahead.