I Thirst
The poem explores themes of spiritual longing and the quest for inner peace. The first voice expresses a deep thirst, symbolizing a yearning for healing and solace that the material world cannot provide. This thirst is contrasted with the idea of a distant, purifying stream that offers relief and rejuvenation, suggesting a connection to a higher spiritual realm. The imagery of a "healing stream" flowing through "Salem's lovely plains" evokes a sense of hope and the possibility of redemption. The second voice responds with a message of reassurance, emphasizing that the source of fulfillment and joy is not found externally but resides within oneself. It encourages the weary heart to seek solace internally rather than looking outward for answers. The mention of "the Word" and the "living fount" suggests a spiritual awakening and the importance of faith in accessing divine love and peace. Overall, the work juxtaposes the struggles of earthly existence with the promise of spiritual nourishment, advocating for introspection and the recognition of one's inherent connection to the divine. The poem ultimately conveys a message of hope, urging individuals to turn inward to find the strength and healing they seek.
By Frances Ellen Watkins Harper · First published 1867 · Genre: Poetry, Spiritual, Religious · 252 words
First lines
First Voice I thirst, but earth cannot allay The fever coursing through my veins.
The healing stream is far away -- It flows through Salem's lovely plains.
The murmurs of its crystal flow Break ever o'er this world of strife; My heart is weary, let me go, To bathe it in the stream of life; For many worn and weary hearts Have bathed in this pure healing stream, And felt their griefs and cares depart, E'en like some sad forgotten dream.
Second Voice "The Word is nigh thee, even in thy heart."
What this Textopian page supports
I Thirst is listed on Textopian as a poem by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, dated 1867 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- Date: 1867 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Spiritual, Religious, Romanticism, African American Literature
- Length: 252 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
- Spiritual — The themes revolve around spiritual longing and the quest for divine connection.
- Religious — The text references religious concepts and the search for solace in faith.
- Romanticism — The emotional depth and focus on individual experience align with Romantic literary themes.
Tags
Slavery · Abolitionism · American Literature · 19th Century Fiction · Social Justice · Racism · Human Rights · Feminism · African American Experience · Historical Fiction · Drama · Poetry