E. C. Culbertson
The poem reflects the thoughts of a deceased individual who grapples with the legacy of their contributions to the community, particularly in the construction of a courthouse. The speaker questions the permanence of their efforts and the recognition they received, pondering whether their significant role will be forgotten as time passes. They express a sense of disillusionment with how history often favors those who oppose progress rather than those who genuinely contribute to it. The speaker acknowledges the irony of their situation, comparing the divine justice of the afterlife to the earthly reality where the true contributors are overshadowed by those who claim credit. The poem highlights themes of recognition, legacy, and the often-unfair nature of societal memory. The speaker's reflections serve as a critique of how contributions to the community can be overlooked or appropriated by others, emphasizing the transient nature of human acknowledgment and the struggle for lasting significance.
By Edgar Lee Masters · First published 1915 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Social Commentary · 217 words
First lines
Is it true, Spoon River, That in the hall-way of the New Court House There is a tablet of bronze Containing the embossed faces Of Editor Whedon and Thomas Rhodes?
And is it true that my successful labors In the County Board, without which Not one stone would have been placed on another, And the contributions out of my own pocket To build the temple, are but memories among the people, Gradually fading away, and soon to descend With them to this oblivion where I lie?
In truth, I can so believe.
For it is a law of the Kingdom of Heaven That whoso enters the vineyard at the eleventh hour Shall receive a full day's pay.
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E. C. Culbertson is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edgar Lee Masters, dated 1915 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: Edgar Lee Masters
- Date: 1915 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Social Commentary, Historical Fiction, Philosophical
- Length: 217 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Literary Fiction — The themes explore human experiences, societal roles, and existential reflections.
- Social Commentary — The poem critiques societal values and the nature of legacy and recognition.
- Historical Fiction — It reflects on historical context and local governance, providing insight into the past.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · Free Verse · Symbolism · Psychological Insight · Character Study · Social Commentary · Midwestern Setting · Small Town Life · Family Dynamics · Marriage · Love