Birthday Verses
The novel explores the life of a young woman who rejects the societal expectations placed upon her and instead pursues a career as a writer. Through her journey, the protagonist navigates themes of identity, morality, and personal growth, all while grappling with the constraints imposed on women during the late 19th century.
By Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward · First published 1887 · Genre: Poetry, Tribute, Inspirational · 547 words
First lines
H. B. S.
Arise, and call her blessed, -- seventy years! Each one a tongue to speak for her, who needs No poor device of ours to tell to-day The story of her glory in our hearts. Precede us all, ye quiet lips of love, Ye honors high of home -- nobilities Of mother and of wife -- the heraldry Of happiness; dearer to her than were The homage of the world. We yield unto The royal claims of tenderness. Speak thou Before all voices, ripened human life!
What this Textopian page supports
Birthday Verses is listed on Textopian as a poem by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward, dated 1887 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
- Date: 1887 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Tribute, Inspirational, Historical, Religious
- Length: 547 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Birthday Verses by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
- 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 Birthday Verses?
- How does this poem by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Words by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Christmas Hymn by Edith Nesbit
- If We Should Meet Him by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Christmas Fancies by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Mission by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Brotherhood by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form, with a focus on rhythm, meter, and imagery.
- Tribute — The content is a celebratory homage to an individual, highlighting their virtues and accomplishments.
- Inspirational — Themes of hope, faith, and moral upliftment are prevalent throughout the verses.
- Historical — References to historical events and societal changes, such as the abolition of slavery, are present.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Birthday Themes · Celebratory · Inspirational · Motivational · Uplifting · Spiritual · Religious · Christian · Faith