The New Ezekiel by Emma Lazarus
The poem explores the theme of Jewish identity and the longing for a homeland. It describes the prophet Ezekiel's vision of a valley of dry bones that come to life, symbolizing the restoration of Israel. The poem also touches on the idea of exile and the yearning for a return to the Promised Land.
By Emma Lazarus · First published 1885 · Genre: Poetry, Religious Literature, Social Commentary · 204 words
First lines
What, can these dead bones live, whose sap is dried By twenty scorching centuries of wrong? Is this the House of Israel, whose pride Is as a tale that's told, an ancient song? Are these ignoble relics all that live Of psalmist, priest, and prophet? Can the breath Of very heaven bid these Bones revive, Open the graves and clothe the ribs of death?
What this Textopian page supports
The New Ezekiel is listed on Textopian as a poem by Emma Lazarus, dated 1885 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Emma Lazarus
- Date: 1885 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious Literature, Social Commentary, Historical Fiction, Inspirational Literature
- Length: 204 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The New Ezekiel by Emma Lazarus
- 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 The New Ezekiel?
- How does this poem by Emma Lazarus fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Crowing Of The Red Cock by Emma Lazarus
- The New Exodus by John Greenleaf Whittier
- The Cable Hymn by John Greenleaf Whittier
- A Song Inscribed To The Fremont Clubs by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Arisen At Last by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Daniel Neall by John Greenleaf Whittier
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, making it primarily a poem.
- Religious Literature — The themes and references to biblical figures and prophecies indicate a strong religious context.
- Social Commentary — The text addresses historical injustices and the revival of a people, reflecting social and political themes.
- Historical Fiction — The references to ancient Israel and its cultural heritage suggest a connection to historical narratives.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Biblical Allusions · Prophetic Voice · Social Commentary · Religious Themes · Messianic Imagery · Symbolism · Allegory · Historical Context · Cultural Critique