My Mother's Kiss
The poem reflects on the profound impact of a mother's love and guidance throughout the speaker's life. It begins with a nostalgic recollection of the mother's kiss, which symbolizes affection and comfort. The speaker emphasizes the lasting significance of this memory, asserting that it occupies a sacred space in their mind. As the poem progresses, the speaker recalls the mother's gentle touch and the warmth of her presence, highlighting the love and wisdom she imparted. The mother's teachings are portrayed as invaluable, shaping the speaker's understanding of faith and morality. Despite worldly achievements and accolades, the speaker values the lessons learned from their mother above all else. The tone shifts to a sense of longing as the speaker reflects on aging and the inevitability of death. There is a desire to reunite with the mother, to return to a state of innocence and love. The imagery of a "glory-land" suggests a hope for an afterlife where they can be together again, free from earthly concerns. Ultimately, the poem conveys themes of love, memory, and the enduring influence of a mother's guidance, illustrating how these elements shape one's identity and values throughout life.
By Frances Ellen Watkins Harper · First published 1854 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Inspirational · 319 words
First lines
My mother's kiss, my mother's kiss, I feel its impress now; As in the bright and happy days She pressed it on my brow.
You say it is a fancied thing Within my memory fraught; To me it has a sacred place -- The treasure house of thought.
What this Textopian page supports
My Mother's Kiss is listed on Textopian as a poem by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, dated 1854 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: 1854 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Inspirational, Religious, Autobiographical
- Length: 319 words
- Structure: 1 section, 11 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
- Literary Fiction — The themes of memory, love, and loss are explored with depth and emotional resonance.
- Inspirational — The poem conveys messages of faith, love, and the enduring impact of a mother's influence.
- Religious — References to spiritual themes and the afterlife suggest a religious undertone.
Tags
American Literature · 19th Century Novel · African American Experience · Family Drama · Mother-Daughter Relationship · Slavery · Abolitionism · Social Justice · Feminist Themes · Coming of Age · Identity Crisis · Racial Tensions