John Cabanis by Edgar Lee Masters

Name: John Cabanis
Author: Edgar Lee Masters

The work presents a monologue reflecting on the themes of democracy, freedom, and the struggle for order in society. The speaker, a political figure, addresses fellow citizens, expressing a commitment to the principles of law and order amidst the chaos and lawlessness prevalent in Spoon River. He acknowledges the challenges faced by those who strive for freedom, emphasizing that many endure hardship and disappointment in their quest for a better society. The speaker draws a parallel between the efforts of individuals seeking to build a just world and the labor of coral insects, suggesting that their sacrifices contribute to a greater purpose. He articulates a vision of a future where every individual is empowered, wise, and capable of governance, akin to the ideal guardians described by Plato. This aspiration for a world republic underscores the speaker's belief in the potential for collective progress and the importance of nurturing strength and wisdom in every citizen. Throughout the monologue, the speaker grapples with the tension between idealism and the harsh realities of political life. He remains steadfast in his dedication to the cause of freedom, asserting that the struggle for a more equitable society is a noble endeavor, despite the setbacks and failures that may arise. The work ultimately serves as a meditation on the complexities of democracy and the enduring hope for a better future, highlighting the importance of resilience and commitment in the face of adversity.

By Edgar Lee Masters · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Political · 193 words

First lines

Neither spite, fellow citizens, Nor forgetfulness of the shiftlessness, And the lawlessness and waste Under democracy's rule in Spoon River Made me desert the party of law and order And lead the liberal party.

Fellow citizens! I saw as one with second sight That every man of the millions of men Who give themselves to Freedom, And fail while Freedom fails, Enduring waste and lawlessness, And the rule of the weak and the blind, Dies in the hope of building earth, Like the coral insect, for the temple To stand on at the last.

And I swear that Freedom will wage to the end The war for making every soul Wise and strong and as fit to rule As Plato's lofty guardians In a world republic girdled!

What this Textopian page supports

John Cabanis is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edgar Lee Masters, dated 1917 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Edgar Lee Masters
Date: 1917 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Political, Social Commentary, Literary Fiction
Length: 193 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

Good citation fit

Work identity for John Cabanis by Edgar Lee Masters
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering John Cabanis?
How does this poem by Edgar Lee Masters fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, reflecting on themes of democracy and freedom.
Philosophical — The text explores deep philosophical themes regarding freedom, governance, and the human condition.
Political — The content addresses political themes, particularly the critique of democracy and the call for law and order.
Social Commentary — The work comments on societal issues such as lawlessness and the responsibilities of citizens.