25th Anniversary of the "Old Folks' Home"
The work reflects on the establishment and significance of a sanctuary for the elderly, emphasizing compassion and community support rather than glorifying heroic deeds. It highlights the importance of kindness and charity in providing comfort to those who have endured life's hardships. The narrative acknowledges the contributions of various individuals who played pivotal roles in creating and sustaining this refuge, celebrating their generosity and dedication. The poem contrasts the grandeur often associated with historical achievements with the quiet, profound impact of caring for the vulnerable. It honors the memory of those who have passed, recognizing their contributions to the welfare of others and the legacy of love they leave behind. The imagery evokes a sense of peace and hope, suggesting that true fulfillment comes from acts of service and the bonds formed through shared humanity. The work culminates in a vision of a transcendent afterlife where the struggles of the earthly realm are replaced by eternal comfort and security, reinforcing the idea that the values of compassion and community endure beyond physical existence. The overarching theme is one of gratitude, remembrance, and the enduring power of love and support in the face of life's challenges.
By Frances Ellen Watkins Harper · First published 1866 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Social Commentary · 590 words
First lines
We come, but not to celebrate, / Amid the flight and whirl of years, / The deeds of heroes, on whose brows / Are laurels, drenched with blood and tears.
Nor yet to tell of wondrous deeds, / Performed on fields of bloodless strife; / But of the lovely, precious things, / That bless and beautify our life.
And from the annals of the poor, / We would unfold a shining page; / And tell of kindly hands that smoothed / The rugged path of faltering age.
To shelter those who long have borne / Life's chilling storms and searching heat, / In restful homes, with love alight, / What charity more pure and sweet?
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25th Anniversary of the "Old Folks' Home" is listed on Textopian as a poem by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, dated 1866 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- Date: 1866 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Inspirational, Social Commentary, Historical, Religious
- Length: 590 words
- Structure: 1 section, 17 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Inspirational — The themes focus on charity, kindness, and the beauty of caring for the elderly.
- Social Commentary — The poem addresses societal issues related to aging and the treatment of the elderly.
- Historical — It reflects on the past contributions of individuals to the establishment of a home for the aged.
Tags
African American Literature · Social Justice · Poetry Collection · Slavery · Racism · Ageism · Nursing Home · Family Dynamics · Societal Commentary · Historical Context · American History · 19th Century Literature