Two Schools (Lyrics)
The poem explores the idea of two schools: one that teaches children to conform and obey authority, and another that encourages them to think for themselves and question the status quo. The first school is depicted as a place where students are taught to memorize facts and repeat what they've been told, without questioning or critical thinking. The teacher is portrayed as a strict disciplinarian who emphasizes obedience over curiosity. In contrast, the second school is described as a place of freedom and creativity, where students are encouraged to explore their own thoughts and ideas. The teacher in this school is depicted as a guide who fosters critical thinking and independence. The poem suggests that the two schools represent different approaches to education, with one emphasizing rote memorization and obedience, and the other encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and individuality.
By Henry Van Dyke · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Nature · 231 words
First lines
I put my heart to school In the world, where men grow wise, "Go out," I said, "and learn the rule; "Come back when you win a prize."
My heart came back again: "Now where is the prize? " I cried. -- "The rule was false, and the prize was pain, "And the teacher's name was Pride."
I put my heart to school In the woods, where veeries sing, And brooks run cool and clear; In the fields, where wild flowers spring, And the blue of heaven bends near. "Go out," I said: "you are half a fool, "But perhaps they can teach you here."
"And why do you stay so long, "My heart, and where do you roam? " The answer came with a laugh and a song, -- "I find this school is home."
What this Textopian page supports
Two Schools (Lyrics) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Van Dyke, dated 1903 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: Henry Van Dyke
- Date: 1903 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Nature, Didactic
- Length: 231 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Philosophical — Explores themes of wisdom, pride, and the search for true knowledge, reflecting philosophical inquiry.
- Nature — Describes natural settings like woods and fields, emphasizing the connection between nature and learning.
- Didactic — Conveys a moral lesson about the value of humility and the limitations of conventional education.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Lyrics · Verse · Free Verse · Nature Poetry · Spirituality · Philosophy · Meditation · Reflections · Personal Growth