Thomas Edison 1888 First Phonogramic Poem Text
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Description
The First Phonogramic Poem by the Reverend Horatio Nelson Powers, D.D., was recorded in the authors own voice by the phonograph itself in Orange, New Jersey, on June 16, 1888. This printed document accompanied a record; both addressed to Col. Gouraud, and Dedicated to Thomas Edison by Mr. Powers. It arrived in England at “Little Menlo” Upper Norwood, Surrey on June 26, 1888. This communication was the first of its kind to be created. This text is one of the only surviving documents of this early accomplishment in the life of the Edison Phonograph.
The text version of the record reads:
Edison Library June 16th, 1888
Dear Colonel Gouraud,
Mr. Edison has kindly honoured mw with an invitation to give, in the Phonograph, an opinion of its merits.
The contemplation of its wonderful character and performances is over whelming, and my feelings naturally seek vent in verse. But the Phonograph will speak for itself. Now listen to its voice: ----
The Phonograph’s Salutation.
I seize the palpitating air. I hoard
Music and Speech. All lips that breathe are mine.
I speak, and the inviolable word
Authenticates its origin and sign.
I am a Tomb, a Paradise, a throne;
An angel, prophet, slave, immortal friend:
My living records, in their native tone,
Convict the knave, and disputations end.
In me are souls embalmed. I am an ear
Flawless as truth, and truth’s own tongue am I.
I am a resurrection; men may hear
The Quick and dead converse, as I reply.
Hail English shores, and homes,.and marts of peace!
New trophies, Gourand, yet are to be won.
May “sweetness, light,” and brotherhood increase!
I am the latest-born of Edison.
Horatio Nelson Powers
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