Joy and Duty (Epigrams, Greetings, and Inscripti
This collection of epigrams, greetings, and inscriptions explores the tension between joy and duty, highlighting the importance of finding balance between personal happiness and responsibility to others. The work consists of brief, witty sayings that offer insights into the human experience, encouraging readers to prioritize their own well-being while still fulfilling their obligations to society.
By Henry Van Dyke · First published 1901 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophy, Inspirational · 92 words
First lines
"Joy is a Duty," -- so with golden lore The Hebrew rabbis taught in days of yore, And happy human hearts heard in their speech Almost the highest wisdom man can reach.
But one bright peak still rises far above, And there the Master stands whose name is Love, Saying to those whom weary tasks employ: "Life is divine when Duty is a Joy. "
What this Textopian page supports
Joy and Duty (Epigrams, Greetings, and Inscriptions) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Van Dyke, dated 1901 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Henry Van Dyke
- Date: 1901 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophy, Inspirational, Religious
- Length: 92 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Joy and Duty (Epigrams, Greetings, and Inscriptions) by Henry Van Dyke
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- My Philosofy by James Whitcomb Riley
- Love And Light Epigrams Greetings And Inscriptions by Henry Van Dyke
- Apologia by Oscar Wilde
- Tea Table Talk by K. Jerome
- Duties Of Life by James Mcintyre
- Apology by Joyce Kilmer
Genres
- Poetry — The work is composed in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Philosophy — The text explores philosophical themes such as duty, joy, and love, reflecting on human wisdom and moral teachings.
- Inspirational — The content is designed to inspire and uplift, focusing on positive messages about life and duty.
- Religious — The work references religious teachings and figures, such as Hebrew rabbis and a Master, indicating a spiritual dimension.
Tags
Philosophical · Poetic · Epigrammatic · Inspirational · Moralistic · Didactic · Literary · Classical · American · 19th Century · Christian · Spiritual