Lines to Charles Sumner
The work is a tribute to a prominent abolitionist, celebrating his courage and commitment to the fight against slavery. It acknowledges the impact of his powerful words, which serve as a rallying cry for freedom and justice. The speaker expresses gratitude for his bravery in speaking out against oppression, highlighting the importance of his voice in a time when many allies have passed away. The poem reflects on the deepening despair surrounding the plight of enslaved individuals, contrasting it with the strength and resolve embodied by the subject. His words are depicted as a clarion call, invigorating the struggle for liberation and serving as a source of inspiration. The imagery of battle and conflict underscores the urgency and seriousness of the fight against injustice. The speaker hopes that the subject's impactful words will continue to inspire future generations, planting seeds of change that will lead to significant actions and achievements in the pursuit of freedom. The work emphasizes the enduring power of language and the necessity of steadfast allies in the ongoing struggle for equality and human rights.
By Frances Ellen Watkins Harper · First published 1855 · Genre: Poetry, Social Commentary, Historical Literature · 168 words
First lines
Thank God that thou hast spoken Words earnest, true and brave, The lightning of thy lips did smite The fetters of the slave.
I thought the shadows deepened, Round the pathway of the slave, As one by one his faithful friends Were dropping in the grave.
When other hands grew feeble, And loosed their hold on life, Thy words rang like a clarion For freedom's noble strife.
Thy words were not soft echoes, Thy tones no siren song; They fell as battle-axes Upon our giant wrong.
What this Textopian page supports
Lines to Charles Sumner is listed on Textopian as a poem by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, dated 1855 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: 1855 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Social Commentary, Historical Literature, Inspirational Literature, African American Literature
- Length: 168 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Social Commentary — The poem addresses themes of slavery, freedom, and social justice, reflecting on the impact of Charles Sumner's words.
- Historical Literature — The poem references historical figures and events related to the abolitionist movement.
- Inspirational Literature — The poem aims to inspire and motivate readers towards the cause of freedom and justice.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Slavery · Abolitionism · Civil War Era · African American Experience · Social Justice · Politics · Rhetoric · Oratory · Eulogy