The Deliverance
The narrative unfolds during the Civil War era, focusing on the experiences of enslaved individuals on a Southern plantation. The central character reflects on the life of Mister Thomas, the master's son, who is kind-hearted and beloved by the enslaved community. As the war intensifies, Mister Thomas expresses his eagerness to fight for the Confederacy, causing distress to his mother, who fears for his safety. The enslaved narrator observes the emotional turmoil within the household as Mister Thomas prepares to leave for battle. Despite the sorrow of separation, there is a sense of hope among the enslaved people, particularly from Uncle Jacob, who believes that freedom is inevitable. The community is divided in their prayers; the enslaved pray for liberation while the mistress prays for the Confederacy's success. As the war progresses, news of battles reaches the plantation, and the enslaved community reacts with a mix of joy and trepidation. The turning point arrives when they learn of President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation, declaring an end to slavery. This news ignites jubilation among the enslaved, who celebrate their newfound freedom, contrasting sharply with the despair of the mistress, who mourns the loss of her servants. The aftermath of emancipation brings both joy and challenges. The narrator describes the initial euphoria of freedom, followed by the harsh realities of navigating a new life. The assassination of Lincoln casts a shadow over their celebrations, leading to a collective mourning among the formerly enslaved. The narrative also critiques the political landscape post-emancipation, highlighting the struggles of the newly freed individuals to assert their rights and the challenges they face from those who seek to undermine their freedom. The narrator reflects on the importance of voting and political engagement, emphasizing the need for the community to remain vigilant against exploitation and to honor the sacrifices made for their freedom. Through a blend of personal reflection and communal experience, the work captures the complexities of freedom, the lingering effects of slavery, and the ongoing fight for equality and justice in a changing America. The characters embody resilience and hope, navigating the tumultuous landscape of a nation grappling with its identity and values.
By Frances Ellen Watkins Harper · First published 1866 · Genre: Poetry, Historical Fiction, Social Commentary · 2,227 words
First lines
Master only left old Mistus One bright and handsome boy; But she fairly doted on him, He was her pride and joy.
We all liked Mister Thomas, He was so kind at heart; And when the young folks got in scrapes, He always took their part.
What this Textopian page supports
The Deliverance is listed on Textopian as a poem by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, dated 1866 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: 1866 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Historical Fiction, Social Commentary, African American Literature, Narrative Poetry
- Length: 2,227 words
- Structure: 1 section, 61 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Deliverance by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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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 poetic devices and structure.
- Historical Fiction — The narrative addresses historical events, particularly the Civil War and slavery, through the lens of personal experiences.
- Social Commentary — The poem critiques social issues such as slavery, freedom, and the political landscape of the time.
- African American Literature — The work reflects the experiences and perspectives of African Americans during a pivotal historical period.
Tags
Slavery · Abolitionism · American Literature · 19th Century Fiction · Social Justice · Racism · Freedom · Escape · Adventure · Historical Fiction · Southern United States · African American Experience