A Memory by John Greenleaf Whittier
The poem explores the theme of nostalgia and the passing of time. It reflects on a past love that has faded with age, leaving only memories. The speaker's emotions are bittersweet, acknowledging the loss while cherishing the recollection.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1826 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Nature Poetry · 203 words
First lines
Here, while the loom of Winter weaves The shroud of flowers and fountains, I think of thee and summer eves Among the Northern mountains.
When thunder tolled the twilight's close, And winds the lake were rude on, And thou wert singing, _Ca' the Yowes_, The bonny yowes of Cluden!
When, close and closer, hushing breath, Our circle narrowed round thee, And smiles and tears made up the wreath Wherewith our silence crowned thee;
And, strangers all, we felt the ties Of sisters and of brothers; Ah! whose of all those kindly eyes Now smile upon another's?
What this Textopian page supports
A Memory is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1826 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: John Greenleaf Whittier
- Date: 1826 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Nature Poetry, Nostalgic Poetry, Pastoral Poetry
- Length: 203 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Lyric Poetry — The work expresses personal emotions and reflections, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Romanticism — Themes of nature, nostalgia, and emotional depth align with Romantic ideals.
- Nature Poetry — The vivid imagery of nature and seasonal change is central to the poem.
- Nostalgic Poetry — The poem reflects on memories and past experiences, evoking a sense of longing.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Free Verse · Nature Poetry · Autobiographical · Memoir · Personal Narrative · Romanticism · Emotional · Introspective · Reflective