Destiny by Georgia Douglas Johnson
The poem explores themes of longing, love, and the inexorable pull of destiny. The speaker expresses a deep connection with a beloved, suggesting that their love is a natural force, akin to rivers flowing toward the sea. This imagery conveys a sense of inevitability and a profound bond that transcends time and space. The speaker feels a constant awareness of their beloved's presence, indicating that love is both a physical and spiritual journey. The reference to "Time" seeking "Eternity" suggests that their love is timeless, enduring beyond the constraints of the present moment. The stillness of the night amplifies the anticipation of reunion, as the speaker hears the metaphorical footsteps of their love approaching. Throughout the work, the interplay between time and love emphasizes the idea that true connections are destined to occur, regardless of obstacles. The speaker's confidence in their love's pursuit reinforces the notion that love is a guiding force, leading them toward each other. The poem encapsulates the essence of yearning and the belief in a fated union, portraying love as an unstoppable current that shapes their existence.
By Georgia Douglas Johnson · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric · 73 words
First lines
I know my love is seeing me As restless rivers seek the sea, Across the night, across the days That snare the intervening ways.
I know my love is seeking me As Time must seek Eternity, When nights are very still I hear His footsteps, coming, coming near!
What this Textopian page supports
Destiny is listed on Textopian as a poem by Georgia Douglas Johnson, dated 1917 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Georgia Douglas Johnson
- Date: 1917 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric, Spiritual, Modernism
- Length: 73 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, utilizing poetic devices and structure.
- Romanticism — The themes of love and longing are central, characteristic of Romantic literature.
- Lyric — The expression of personal emotions and feelings aligns with the lyric genre.
- Spiritual — The references to time and eternity suggest a spiritual or philosophical exploration.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Symbolism · Free Verse · Racial Identity · African American Experience · Social Justice · Feminism · Empowerment · Hope · Resilience · Spirituality