Alms!
The rain fell fast, the wind blew cold,
A beggar, old and gray,
His limbs were numb, his heart was cold,
He stretched his hand to pray.
"Alms! Alms!** for the sake of Him who gave
His life for you and me,
A crust of bread, a coin to save
From death's cold misery."
The excerpt captures the emotional appeal of the entire piece, which uses vivid imagery and a strong call to action to plead for compassion.
To find the complete text:
You can easily find the full piece of "Alms!" online by searching for it using the title and author. Many websites and online libraries have it available for free.
Additional Tips:
* Consider the emotions: The poem's themes of poverty, despair, and the need for compassion are powerful. Practice delivering it with a sense of urgency and genuine empathy.
* Utilize vocal techniques: Play with tone, volume, and pacing to emphasize key phrases and emotions.
* Focus on delivery: Don't just read the words; bring them to life through your performance.
Remember, this is just an example, and there are many other declamation pieces out there. Feel free to explore different options and find one that resonates with you!