The Change
The poem explores the profound transformation experienced by an individual who has recently attained freedom. The speaker reflects on the beauty of the natural world, emphasizing the blue sky and green grass, which symbolize the newfound joy and hope that freedom brings. The absence of sorrow and pain is highlighted, as the winds carry only uplifting melodies rather than cries of despair. The speaker describes a sense of contentment and cheerfulness in daily life, contrasting their previous existence marked by struggle and bondage. The joy derived from family, particularly the love for a child and spouse, is central to this newfound happiness. The laughter and innocence of the child serve as a powerful antidote to past grief, illustrating the healing power of love and familial bonds. The poem culminates in a celebration of freedom, portraying it as a catalyst for joy and peace, which transforms the speaker's perception of the world. The overall tone is one of gratitude and elation, emphasizing the stark difference between life in bondage and the liberating experience of freedom. The work encapsulates themes of liberation, familial love, and the beauty of life unshackled from oppression.
By Frances Ellen Watkins Harper · First published 1860 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Social Commentary · 236 words
First lines
The blue sky arching overhead, The green turf 'neath my daily tread, All glorified by freedom's light, Grow fair and lovely to my sight.
The very winds that sweep along Seemed burdened with a lovely song, Nor shrieks nor groans of grief or fear, Float on their wings and pain my ear.
No more with dull and aching breast, Roused by the horn -- I rise from rest Content and cheerful with my lot, I greet the sun and leave my cot.
For darling child and loving wife I toil with newly waken'd life; The light that lingers round her smile The shadows from my soul beguile.
What this Textopian page supports
The Change is listed on Textopian as a poem by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, dated 1860 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: 1860 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Social Commentary, African American Literature, Inspirational Literature
- Length: 236 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Change 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 The Change?
- 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
- Out In The Cold by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- The Grave Of The Slave by Sarah Louisa Forten Purvis
- Songs For The People by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- The Refiners Gold by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- Save The Boys by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- An Appeal To Woman by Sarah Louisa Forten Purvis
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, utilizing poetic devices and structure.
- Romanticism — The themes of nature, freedom, and emotional expression align with Romantic ideals.
- Social Commentary — The poem addresses issues of freedom and bondage, reflecting on societal conditions.
- African American Literature — The author is a prominent African American writer, and the themes resonate with the African American experience.
Tags
Abolitionist · American Literature · Feminism · Racism · Slavery · Social Justice · Equality · Freedom · Human Rights · Civil War Era · African American Experience · Women's Rights