To Henry Lincoln Johnson -- Lawyer
The poem presents a powerful tribute to a lawyer who stands resolutely against systemic prejudice and injustice. It highlights the lawyer's courage and determination in the face of societal challenges, particularly those rooted in racial discrimination. The imagery of a "haughty bar" symbolizes the legal and social institutions that seek to suppress and control, while the references to being "fettered" and "benighted prejudice" underscore the oppressive environment the lawyer confronts. The lawyer is depicted as a formidable figure, likened to a giant, who advances fearlessly into the fray, embodying the struggle for justice. The metaphor of offering "heart's blood" signifies a deep commitment to the cause, suggesting that the fight for equality and rights is both personal and sacrificial. The poem emphasizes the importance of selflessness and the willingness to lead others in the pursuit of justice, culminating in a call to rally those who share the vision of a more equitable society. Overall, the work encapsulates themes of resilience, leadership, and the moral imperative to challenge injustice, portraying the lawyer as a beacon of hope and strength in a tumultuous landscape.
By Georgia Douglas Johnson · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Historical · 157 words
First lines
Quite firmly did you stand, and unafraid / Before that haughty bar that sought to hold / You fettered, lest you strengthen and grow bold / To break a clearing through that fetid glade / Which their benighted prejudice had made; / They taunted you with darkling hints of gold, / Preferring you were bought as you had sold, / They weaved their webs like spiders in the shade.
But as a giant in the falling night / Of storm, you forged afore with ruthless tread, / To offer up your heart's blood in the fight, / Forgetting self, unmindful, unafraid, / Nor pausing until thrice acclaimed the right / To rally in the tents of those you led.
What this Textopian page supports
To Henry Lincoln Johnson -- Lawyer 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, Literary Fiction, Historical, Inspirational, Social Commentary
- Length: 157 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
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- Work identity for To Henry Lincoln Johnson -- Lawyer by Georgia Douglas Johnson
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices such as imagery and metaphor.
- Literary Fiction — The themes explore social justice, personal struggle, and resilience, characteristic of literary fiction.
- Historical — The poem reflects historical themes related to race and legal battles, relevant to the context of the time.
- Inspirational — The tone and message convey inspiration and empowerment in the face of adversity.
Tags
Poetry Collection · African American Literature · Early 20th Century Poetry · Georgia Douglas Johnson · American Poet · Women's Writing · Lawyer Tribute · Free Verse · Social Justice · Racial Equality · Civil Rights · Poetic Ode