The Three Best Things (Lyrics of Labour and Roma
This poem collection explores the intersection of labor and romance through a series of lyrical poems that examine the human experience. The first theme is the struggle for social justice, where the poet critiques societal norms and expectations that devalue manual labor. The second theme is the power of love to transcend class boundaries and bring people together across different walks of life. The third theme is the importance of finding meaning and purpose in one's work, rather than simply viewing it as a means to an end.
By Henry Van Dyke · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational · 564 words
First lines
I. WORK
Let me but do my work from day to day, / In field or forest, at the desk or loom, / In roaring market-place or tranquil room; / Let me but find it in my heart to say, / When vagrant wishes beckon me astray, / "This is my work; my blessing, not my doom; / Of all who live, I am the one by whom / This work can best be done in the right way."
What this Textopian page supports
The Three Best Things (Lyrics of Labour and Romance) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Van Dyke, dated 1903 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: 1903 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational, Romance, Pastoral
- Length: 564 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter to convey its themes.
- Philosophical — The text explores existential themes such as the meaning of work, love, and life.
- Inspirational — The content encourages a positive outlook on work, love, and life, promoting personal growth and fulfillment.
- Romance — The section on love delves into themes of genuine affection and emotional connection.
Tags
Poetry · Romance · Love · Labour · Philosophy · Literary Fiction · American Literature · 19th Century Literature · Symbolism · Allegory · Fable · Mythology