Faith by Georgia Douglas Johnson
The poem explores the themes of faith, hope, and the cyclical nature of human experience. It contrasts the perspectives of the faint-hearted and the strong, illustrating how the former lose faith when faced with loss and despair, while the latter continue to hope despite the inevitability of death and the passage of time. The imagery of a tomb symbolizes finality and the end of aspirations, suggesting that when one's dreams are buried, they may feel a profound sense of emptiness. However, the strong maintain their hope, witnessing the natural cycle of life as grass grows over graves, signifying renewal and the persistence of life even in the face of death. The poem delves into the internal struggles of individuals, highlighting the "little world within the world" that each person inhabits. It reflects on the fading of high yearnings and the pain of unfulfilled desires, suggesting that while some dreams may die, new ones emerge, only to face their own trials and tribulations. The repetition of "And yet" serves as a poignant reminder of resilience, indicating that despite the challenges and the cyclical nature of hope and despair, there remains an enduring spirit within humanity. The work ultimately presents a meditation on the complexities of faith, the inevitability of loss, and the relentless pursuit of hope amidst life's adversities.
By Georgia Douglas Johnson · First published 1912 · Genre: Poetry, Spiritual, Philosophical · 110 words
First lines
The faint lose faith When in the tomb their all is laid, And there returns No echoing of weal or woe.
The strong hope on, They see the clods close over head, The grass grow green, No word is said, And yet --
A little world within the world Are we, Daily our hearts' high yearnings fade, Are buried!
New ones are made --
What this Textopian page supports
Faith is listed on Textopian as a poem by Georgia Douglas Johnson, dated 1912 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: 1912 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Spiritual, Philosophical, Literary Fiction, Inspirational
- Length: 110 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
- In A House Was One Who by Ranier Maria Rilke
- The Mystery Of Pain by Emily Dickinson
- Benediction by Georgia Douglas Johnson
- We Must Believe by James Whitcomb Riley
- The Soul Should Always Stand Ajar by Emily Dickinson
- That Such Have Died Enables Us by Emily Dickinson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of faith and hope.
- Spiritual — The themes revolve around faith, loss, and the human experience, reflecting spiritual contemplation.
- Philosophical — The exploration of existential themes and the nature of belief aligns with philosophical inquiry.
- Literary Fiction — The depth of emotion and introspection in the text qualifies it as literary fiction.
Tags
Poetry · Spirituality · Religion · Faith · Hope · Love · Suffering · Mortality · Existentialism · Philosophy · Psychology · Emotions