We Face the Future
The poem explores themes of struggle, hope, and resilience in the face of adversity. It opens with a sense of urgency and foreboding, highlighting the chaos of war and its impact on humanity. The imagery of "sable faces" suggests a focus on the Black experience, emphasizing the collective suffering and endurance of a marginalized group. As the poem progresses, it reflects on the duality of despair and hope, illustrating the tension between the harsh realities of conflict and the unwavering faith in a brighter future. The use of celestial imagery, such as "all the stars opine," conveys a sense of universal support and guidance, suggesting that despite the turmoil, there is a belief in eventual redemption and renewal. The work ultimately serves as a call to action, urging the oppressed to remain steadfast and united in their pursuit of justice and equality. It encapsulates the struggle for identity and dignity, while also affirming the power of collective hope and the possibility of transformation. The tone oscillates between somber reflection and an uplifting vision of what lies ahead, reinforcing the idea that the future, though uncertain, holds the potential for change and liberation.
By Georgia Douglas Johnson · First published 1918 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Social Commentary · 66 words
First lines
The hour is big with sooth and sign, with errant men at war, While blood of alien, friend, and foe imbues the land afar, And we, with sable faces pent, move with the vanguard line, Shod with a faith that
Springtime keeps, and all the stars opine.
What this Textopian page supports
We Face the Future is listed on Textopian as a poem by Georgia Douglas Johnson, dated 1918 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: 1918 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Social Commentary, Historical, Inspirational
- Length: 66 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Literary Fiction — The themes explore complex human experiences and societal issues.
- Social Commentary — The content addresses social issues, particularly related to race and conflict.
- Historical — The poem reflects on historical contexts of war and societal struggles.
Tags
Poetry Collection · African American Literature · Early 20th Century Poetry · Social Justice · Racial Equality · Feminism · Suffrage Movement · American History · Civil Rights · Equality for Women · Anti-Racism · Protest Poetry