The Valley of Baca. Psalm LXXXIV by Emma Lazarus
The poem is a sonnet that explores the idea of a promised land, drawing parallels between the biblical Exodus and the American dream. It describes a place where the oppressed can find refuge and freedom, emphasizing the importance of welcoming and accepting strangers. The poem also touches on the idea of a utopian society, where all people are equal and free.
By Emma Lazarus · First published 1882 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Spiritual, Lyric Poetry · 416 words
First lines
A brackish lake is there with bitter pools / Anigh its margin, brushed by heavy trees. / A piping wind the narrow valley cools, / Fretting the willows and the cypresses. / Gray skies above, and in the gloomy space / An awful presence hath its dwelling-place.
I saw a youth pass down that vale of tears; / His head was circled with a crown of thorn, / His form was bowed as by the weight of years, / His wayworn feet by stones were cut and torn. / His eyes were such as have beheld the sword / Of terror of the angel of the Lord.
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Genres
- Religious Poetry — The poem draws heavily on biblical themes and imagery, particularly referencing Psalm 84, which relates to spiritual journeys and divine presence.
- Spiritual — The work explores themes of suffering, redemption, and spiritual strength, reflecting a deep engagement with the human condition and faith.
- Lyric Poetry — The poem employs personal expression and emotional depth, characteristic of lyric poetry, focusing on the speaker's reflections and feelings.
- Symbolism — The use of symbols such as the valley, the youth, and the crown of thorns conveys deeper meanings related to struggle and triumph.
Tags
Poetry · Spiritual · Religious · Biblical · Psalm · Hebrew · Scripture · Devotional · Meditative · Contemplative · Philosophical · Lyrical
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The Valley of Baca. Psalm LXXXIV is listed on Textopian as a poem by Emma Lazarus, dated 1882 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: 1882 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Spiritual, Lyric Poetry, Symbolism, Nature Poetry
- Length: 416 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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