To W. E. B. Dubois -- Scholar
The poem presents a tribute to a prominent figure, celebrating their intellectual and spiritual influence. It employs rich imagery to convey the subject's grandeur and significance, likening them to a radiant sun that dispels darkness and brings hope. The opening lines emphasize the subject's isolation and strength, suggesting a powerful presence that illuminates the path for others. The poem reflects themes of faith, resilience, and renewal, indicating that even in the face of adversity and decay, there is potential for growth and rebirth. The use of religious references, such as "Sanctus" and "Nunc Dimittus," underscores a sense of reverence and the idea of a spiritual journey. The speaker expresses a collective yearning for guidance and enlightenment, acknowledging their own limitations while celebrating the transformative power of the subject's influence. Overall, the work encapsulates admiration for the subject's contributions to knowledge and society, portraying them as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those navigating life's challenges. The concluding lines reinforce the desire for continued guidance and the joy that comes from such enlightenment, emphasizing the enduring impact of the subject's legacy.
By Georgia Douglas Johnson · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Literary · 148 words
First lines
Grandly isolate as the god of day --
Blazing an orbit through the dank and gloom Of misty morning, far and fair you loom, Flooding the dimness with your golden ray --
Cheering the mantled on the thorn-set way, Teaching of Faith and Hope o'er the tomb, Where both, though buried, spring to newer bloom --
Strengthened and sweet from the mound of decay.
What this Textopian page supports
To W. E. B. Dubois -- Scholar 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, Inspirational, Literary, African American Literature, Religious
- Length: 148 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for To W. E. B. Dubois -- Scholar 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
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering To W. E. B. Dubois -- Scholar?
- How does this poem by Georgia Douglas Johnson fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- When I Rise Up by Georgia Douglas Johnson
- We Face The Future by Georgia Douglas Johnson
- Let Me Not Lose My Dream by Georgia Douglas Johnson
- Black Woman by Georgia Douglas Johnson
- Pictures To The Wall by Langston Hughes
- Lift Evry Voice And Sing by James Weldon Johnson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Inspirational — The themes of hope, faith, and resilience are central to the poem's message.
- Literary — The writing style reflects a high level of literary craftsmanship and depth.
- African American Literature — The poem engages with themes relevant to the African American experience and acknowledges W. E. B. Du Bois's contributions.
Tags
Poetry Collection · African American Literature · Early 20th Century Poetry · Social Justice · Racial Equality · Civil Rights Movement · Black Nationalism · Pan-Africanism · Suffrage · Feminism · Women's Rights · American History