Sonnet to the Mantled by Georgia Douglas Johnson
The poem explores themes of liberation, empowerment, and the triumph over oppression. It envisions a future where individuals rise above societal prejudices and constraints, shedding their burdens like mantles. The imagery of strength and vision suggests a collective awakening, where the oppressed reclaim their identities and voices. The work contrasts the past's limitations, symbolized by "leprous, blinded eye," with a hopeful future marked by joy and celebration. The return of these "joyful exiles" signifies a reconnection with their true selves and a reclamation of dignity. The use of musical imagery, such as "major rhapsodies," emphasizes the beauty and power of this newfound freedom. Ultimately, the poem conveys a message of resilience and the inevitability of change, celebrating the spirit's ascent towards a brighter, more inclusive existence. The victorious imagery at the end reinforces the idea that overcoming adversity leads to a profound sense of achievement and unity.
By Georgia Douglas Johnson · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Social Commentary · 150 words
First lines
And they shall rise and cast their mantles by, / Erect and strong and visioned, in the day / That rings the knell of Curfew o'er the sway / Of prejudice -- who reels with mortal cry / To lift no more her leprous, blinded eye, / Reft of the fetters, far more cursed than they / Which held dominion o'er human clay, / The spirit soars aloft where rainbows lie.
Like joyful exiles swift returning home --
The rhythmic chanson of their eager feet, / While voices strange to ecstasy, long dumb, / Break forth in major rhapsodies, full sweet.
Into the very star-shine, lo! they come / Wearing the bays of victory complete!
What this Textopian page supports
Sonnet to the Mantled 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, Lyric, Social Commentary, Romanticism, African American Literature
- Length: 150 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Sonnet to the Mantled by Georgia Douglas Johnson
- 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
Similar titles
- A Rose O The Hills by Madison Cawein
- The Last Sonnet by John Keats
- For Pao Chin A Boatman On The Yellow Sea by Edna St Vincent Millay
- Stanzas by Edgar Allan Poe
- Hearts Encouragement by Madison Cawein
- Love Song For Lucinda by Langston Hughes
Genres
- Poetry — The work is a sonnet, characterized by its structured verse and use of metaphorical language.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, typical of lyric poetry.
- Social Commentary — The themes address societal issues such as prejudice and liberation.
- Romanticism — The poem reflects ideals of beauty, emotion, and the celebration of the human spirit.
Tags
Poetry · African American Literature · Sonnet · Mantle Imagery · Symbolism · Nature · Beauty · Love · Longing · Yearning · Sorrow · Loss