Formerly a Slave by Herman Melville
The poems explore the aftermath of war and its impact on individuals and society. They are written from a perspective that critiques the romanticization of battle and the dehumanizing effects of violence. The speaker reflects on the consequences of conflict, including the loss of innocence and the perpetuation of suffering.
By Herman Melville · First published 1857 · Genre: Poetry, Historical, Social Commentary · 138 words
First lines
"An idealized Portrait, by E. Vedder, in the Spring Exhibition of the / National Academy, 1865"
The sufferance of her race is shown, / And retrospect of life, / Which now too late deliverance dawns upon; / Yet is she not at strife.
Her children's children they shall know / The good withheld from her; / And so her reverie takes prophetic cheer- / In spirit she sees the stir.
Far down the depth of thousand years, / And marks the revel shine; / Her dusky face is lit with sober light, / Sibylline, yet benign.
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, employing poetic devices such as meter and imagery.
- Historical — The poem reflects on historical themes related to slavery and emancipation.
- Social Commentary — It addresses social issues and the legacy of slavery, offering a critique of societal conditions.
- Philosophical — The poem contemplates existential themes and the human condition, particularly in relation to freedom and suffering.
Tags
American Literature · Civil War Poetry · Emancipation · Free Verse · Historical Fiction · Human Rights · Lyrical Poetry · Narrative Poem · Poetic Sequence · Racial Justice · Reconstruction Era · Slavery
What this Textopian page supports
Formerly a Slave is listed on Textopian as a poem by Herman Melville, dated 1857 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Herman Melville
- Date: 1857 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Historical, Social Commentary, Philosophical
- Length: 138 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
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