Those I Love by Fannie Stearns Davis
"Those I Love" by Fannie Stearns Davis is a poignant poem that explores the interconnectedness of personal joy and the emotional states of loved ones. The speaker expresses a desire to be happy and carefree, but finds their own joy hindered by the sorrow and struggles faced by those they care about. The poem reflects on themes of empathy, shared suffering, and the impact of others' experiences on one's own emotional well-being. The speaker grapples with the tension between their own potential for happiness and the empathy they feel for loved ones who are burdened by doubt and hardship. The poem ultimately questions the fairness of experiencing personal joy when those close to the speaker are enduring pain and uncertainty.
By Fannie Stearns Davis · First published 1901 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Elegiac Poetry · 115 words
First lines
I could be glad and gay to-night If those I love were gay. But they have shadows o'er their sight I cannot sweep away.
My body laughs and leaps and sings. I could go proud and sweet. But those I love have broken wings. Dance not! Dance not, my feet!
I could have faith in God enough To keep me joyfully. But those I love must take the rough Dark way of doubt. Ah me, --
Would God that they by trusting too Gave me my right to Faith! But how dare I drink heaven-dew While those I love drink death?
What this Textopian page supports
Those I Love is listed on Textopian as a poem by Fannie Stearns Davis, dated 1901 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Fannie Stearns Davis
- Date: 1901 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Elegiac Poetry, Philosophical Poetry, Devotional Poetry
- Length: 115 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Those I Love by Fannie Stearns Davis
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is composed in verse with structured meter and poetic language.
- Lyric Poetry — The text conveys personal emotion and introspective reflection through vivid imagery and a subjective tone.
- Elegiac Poetry — The poem laments the imperfections and loss experienced by the speaker, highlighting themes of sorrow and mourning.
- Philosophical Poetry — It explores existential themes such as faith, doubt, and the tension between joy and mortality.
Tags
family · relationships · romance · drama · love · sacrifice · loss · resilience · tradition · emotion · generational conflict · personal struggle