The Valley of Baca. Psalm LXXXIV
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.
What this Textopian page supports
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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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