My Prayer by Henry David Thoreau
The work is a collection of essays that explore the nature of spirituality and personal growth through introspection and self-reliance. It emphasizes the importance of living simply and in harmony with nature. The text critiques societal norms and expectations, advocating for individual freedom and autonomy.
By Henry David Thoreau · First published 1841 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual · 147 words
First lines
Great God, I ask thee for no meaner pelf Than that I may not disappoint myself;
That in my action I may soar as high As I can now discern with this clear eye.
And next in value, which thy kindness lends, That I may greatly disappoint my friends, Howe'er they think or hope that it may be, They may not dream how thou'st distinguished me.
That my weak hand may equal my firm faith, And my life practise more than my tongue saith;
What this Textopian page supports
My Prayer is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry David Thoreau, dated 1841 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Henry David Thoreau
- Date: 1841 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual
- Length: 147 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore self-awareness, personal integrity, and existential reflection, common in philosophical literature.
- Spiritual — The text addresses a higher power and reflects on spiritual aspirations and moral conduct.
Tags
Philosophy · Spirituality · Nature · Meditation · Self-Discovery · Existentialism · Personal Growth · Reflection · Introspection · Mindfulness · Faith · Hope