John Wasson by Edgar Lee Masters

Name: John Wasson
Author: Edgar Lee Masters

The narrative unfolds through the voice of a soldier reflecting on his life, marked by the trials of war and the impact of personal loss. The speaker recalls the poignant farewell from his family as he departs for battle, emphasizing the emotional weight of separation. The imagery of the dew-wet grass evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing. As the story progresses, the soldier recounts the hardships faced during and after the war, including the death of two of his children, which adds a layer of sorrow to his journey. His search for his wife, Rebecca, symbolizes a quest for connection amidst the chaos of life. The couple's migration from North Carolina to Virginia, then to Tennessee, and finally to Illinois illustrates the relentless pursuit of stability and a new beginning. The speaker reflects on the laborious efforts to build a life in Spoon River, highlighting the struggles of pioneering life—clearing land, constructing homes, and establishing a community. This labor is juxtaposed with the backdrop of poverty and loss, underscoring the sacrifices made in the name of progress. The closing lines convey a sense of indignation regarding the recognition of soldiers who fought in later conflicts, suggesting that the sacrifices of earlier generations should not be overshadowed. The speaker's desire for equal acknowledgment reflects a broader commentary on the nature of valor and remembrance in the context of American history. The work encapsulates themes of love, loss, resilience, and the quest for identity in the face of adversity.

By Edgar Lee Masters · First published 1915 · Genre: Poetry, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction · 199 words

First lines

Oh! the dew-wet grass of the meadow in North Carolina Through which Rebecca followed me wailing, wailing, One child in her arms, and three that ran along wailing, Lengthening out the farewell to me off to the war with the British, And then the long, hard years down to the day of Yorktown.

And then my search for Rebecca, Finding her at last in Virginia, Two children dead in the meanwhile.

We went by oxen to Tennessee, Thence after years to Illinois, At last to Spoon River.

We cut the buffalo grass, We felled the forests, We built the school houses, built the bridges, Leveled the roads and tilled the fields Alone with poverty, scourges, death --

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John Wasson 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, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Autobiographical, Regionalism
Length: 199 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
Historical Fiction — The narrative reflects historical events and settings, particularly related to the American experience.
Literary Fiction — The focus on character development and thematic depth aligns with literary fiction.
Autobiographical — The poem reflects personal experiences and memories, suggesting autobiographical elements.