John Brown by James Whitcomb Riley
The poem tells the story of a man who has been wronged and seeks revenge against those responsible for his suffering. He is driven by a desire for justice and is willing to take extreme measures to achieve it, even if it means harming innocent people. The speaker's emotions are intense and conflicted, reflecting the complexity of human nature in the face of injustice.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Biographical, Inspirational · 165 words
First lines
Writ in between the lines of his life-deed We trace the sacred service of a heart Answering the Divine command, in every part Bearing on human weal: His love did feed The loveless; and his gentle hands did lead The blind, and lift the weak, and balm the smart Of other wounds than rankled at the dart In his own breast, that gloried thus to bleed.
He served the lowliest first -- nay, them alone -- The most despised that e'er wreaked vain breath In cries of suppliance in the reign whereat Red Guilt sate squat upon her spattered throne. -- For these doomed there it was he went to death.
God! how the merest man loves one like that!
What this Textopian page supports
John Brown is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1883 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: James Whitcomb Riley
- Date: 1883 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Biographical, Inspirational, Historical, Religious
- Length: 165 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Biographical — The content reflects on the life and deeds of a historical figure, focusing on his actions and character.
- Inspirational — The themes emphasize noble qualities and selfless service, aiming to inspire admiration and emulation.
- Historical — The work references historical context and events, particularly related to social justice and moral action.
Tags
Biography · Historical Fiction · American Literature · 19th Century · Slavery · Abolitionism · Violence · Revolutionary · Heroism · Martyrdom · Social Justice · Racial Tensions