Retribution

Name: Retribution
Author: Frances Ellen Watkins Harper

The poem explores themes of divine judgment and retribution against a nation steeped in moral decay and injustice. It begins with a portrayal of a merciful God who delays punishment, sending prophets and priests to guide the people, but their refusal to heed these warnings leads to a deepening of their guilt. The imagery of bloodshed and suffering highlights the consequences of their actions, as the innocent suffer while the guilty revel in their shame. As the narrative progresses, a desperate cry for justice rises to heaven, signaling a turning point where divine patience wanes. The poem evokes the biblical lament of Egypt, emphasizing the gravity of the situation as the oppressed call out for relief. The tone shifts to one of impending doom, as the judgments of God begin to manifest, causing turmoil and fear throughout the land. The depiction of the nation reeling under the weight of its sins serves as a stark warning to others. The once-powerful nation, now a victim of its own transgressions, becomes a symbol of the inevitable consequences of moral failure. The imagery of blood and fire underscores the severity of divine retribution, illustrating the catastrophic results of ignoring moral and ethical responsibilities. Ultimately, the work serves as a poignant reminder of the relationship between justice and accountability, urging reflection on the societal implications of collective guilt and the necessity of heeding moral guidance. The poem concludes with a somber acknowledgment of the heavy toll that such judgments exact on a nation, leaving a lasting impact on its identity and future.

By Frances Ellen Watkins Harper · First published 1867 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Social Commentary · 257 words

First lines

Judgment slumbered. God in mercy Stayed his strong avenging hand; Sent them priests and sent them prophets, But they would not understand.

Judgment lingered; men, grown bolder, Gloried in their shame and guilt; And the blood of God's poor childrep Was as water freely spilt.

Then arose a cry to heaven, Deep and startling, sad and wild, Sadder than the wail of Egypt, Mourning for the first-born child.

For the sighing of the needy God at length did bare his hand, And the footsteps of his judgments Echoed through the guilty land.

What this Textopian page supports

Retribution 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, Religious, Social Commentary, Historical, Tragedy
Length: 257 words
Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Retribution by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering Retribution?
How does this poem by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
Religious — The themes revolve around divine judgment, morality, and spiritual reflection.
Social Commentary — The poem addresses societal guilt and the consequences of moral failings.
Historical — It reflects on historical themes of judgment and societal collapse.