Answer: (the information I discovered is not my own, but can be useful)
"I lived through the initial century marked by world wars" serves as the opening statement of "Poem" penned by Muriel Rukeyser (1913-1980), an American poet renowned for her activism. Her most notable works highlight themes of social justice, equality, and feminism. The language she employs strongly conveys her anti-war stance and her commitment to opposing warfare through her artistic expression:
"Gradually I would reach for pen and paper,
Composing my verses for those unseen and yet to come.
Throughout the day, reminders of courageous individuals would surround me,
Bravehearted, sending signals across extensive spaces,
Imagining a way of existence beyond a nameless perspective and values not yet conceived."
She believed her poetry would transcend her lifetime, serving as a message to the "unseen and unborn" who could contribute to promoting peace and equity.
"We would strive in any possible way
To discover the limits of ourselves, to transcend our boundaries,
To relinquish the means, to awaken."
In this context, Rukeyser was metaphorically passing the baton to future generations, hoping they would become mindful advocates for peace.
Hope this information is helpful
-Carrie