To William Stanley Braithwaite
The poem serves as a tribute to a significant figure in the literary world, celebrating their contributions and enduring legacy. It reflects on the passage of time and the eventual recognition of the individual's impact on poetry and culture. The speaker acknowledges the transformative power of the subject's work, suggesting that their influence will resonate through future generations. The imagery of time rocking the present to sleep indicates a sense of nostalgia and the inevitability of change. The reference to "lighter hearts" and "rhythmic poesy's enhanced lay" emphasizes the joy and beauty found in poetry, suggesting that the subject's work elevates the art form. The notion of "recurring sequences" implies that the subject's contributions will be revisited and appreciated over time, solidifying their place in literary history. The poem also highlights the struggles and challenges faced by the individual, portraying them as a knightly figure who bravely navigated the complexities of their craft. This metaphor suggests a sense of honor and valor in their pursuit of artistic expression. The "golden avenue of song" symbolizes the path they forged for others, indicating that their efforts have opened doors for future poets and artists. The closing lines evoke a sense of reverence, as the speaker envisions the homage paid to the subject as a sweet incense rising to the heavens. This imagery reinforces the idea that the subject's legacy is not only significant in the earthly realm but also transcends to a higher plane, where their contributions are celebrated and remembered. Overall, the work encapsulates themes of legacy, struggle, and the enduring power of art, positioning the subject as a pivotal figure in the literary landscape whose influence will continue to inspire and uplift.
By Georgia Douglas Johnson · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Tribute, Literary · 145 words
First lines
When time has rocked the present age to sleep, And lighter hearts are lilting to the sway Of rhythmic poesy's enhanced lay, Recurring sequences shall fitly keep Your fame eternal, as they lightly sweep Aside the curtain to that potent day When you in primal fervor led the way Unto Apollo's narrow winding steep.
None shall forget your travail, utter, sore, That oped the golden avenue of song, When, like a knight, so errantly you bore The mantled children valiantly along, Their homage as a rising incense sweet Shall permeate the heavens at your feet!
What this Textopian page supports
To William Stanley Braithwaite 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, Tribute, Literary, Inspirational, Historical
- Length: 145 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
Good citation fit
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is a poem that employs rhythmic and lyrical language, characteristic of the genre.
- Tribute — The poem serves as a tribute to William Stanley Braithwaite, highlighting his contributions to literature.
- Literary — The poem engages with themes of legacy and artistic influence, common in literary works.
- Inspirational — The poem conveys a sense of admiration and inspiration derived from Braithwaite's achievements.
Tags
Poetry Collection · African American Literature · Early 20th Century Poetry · Free Verse · Symbolism · Imagery · Nature Imagery · Love Poem · Friendship Poem · Tribute Poem · American Poetry · Southern Gothic