Father, Father Abraham
The work reflects on the legacy of Abraham Lincoln, particularly on the anniversary of his birth. It serves as a tribute to Lincoln's ideals of faith, love, and sacrifice, emphasizing the connection between his vision and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality. The speaker addresses Lincoln as a paternal figure, invoking a sense of reverence and gratitude for his contributions to the nation. The poem articulates a collective acknowledgment of the sacrifices made for freedom and the moral imperative to continue striving for the values Lincoln embodied. It expresses a commitment to uphold the principles of justice and righteousness, recognizing the ongoing challenges faced by the descendants of those who fought for emancipation. The speaker calls for divine guidance and understanding, acknowledging human shortcomings while reaffirming a dedication to the ideals of liberty and equality. The work encapsulates a sense of hope and determination, urging future generations to honor the legacy of Lincoln by actively participating in the pursuit of justice. Overall, the piece serves as both a memorial and a rallying cry, encouraging reflection on the past while inspiring action in the present and future. It emphasizes the importance of remembering the sacrifices made for freedom and the responsibility to ensure that those sacrifices were not in vain. The tone is solemn yet hopeful, underscoring the enduring impact of Lincoln's vision on American society.
By James Weldon Johnson · First published 1933 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Historical · 157 words
First lines
(On the Anniversary of Lincoln's Birth)
Father, Father Abraham, Today look on us from above;
On us, the offspring of thy faith, The children of thy Christ-like love.
For that which we have humbly wrought, Give us today thy kindly smile;
What this Textopian page supports
Father, Father Abraham is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Weldon Johnson, dated 1933 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: James Weldon Johnson
- Date: 1933 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Historical, Inspirational, Cultural
- Length: 157 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
- Religious — The themes revolve around faith, spirituality, and a connection to Abraham, a significant figure in religious contexts.
- Historical — The poem references Abraham Lincoln and reflects on historical events and their impact on society.
- Inspirational — The text aims to uplift and motivate readers through themes of hope and dedication.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · African American Experience · Racial Identity · Social Justice · Slavery · Emancipation · Freedom · Equality · Civil Rights · Historical Context · Symbolism