Bryant on his Birthday
The poem describes a scene where Bryant, an old man, is celebrating his birthday with friends and family. They are reminiscing about the past and discussing their lives. The tone is nostalgic and reflective, focusing on the passing of time and the fleeting nature of life.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1842 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Celebratory Poetry, Nature Poetry · 219 words
First lines
Mr. Bryant's seventieth birthday, November 3, 1864, was celebrated by a festival to which these verses were sent.
We praise not now the poet's art, The rounded beauty of his song; Who weighs him from his life apart Must do his nobler nature wrong.
Not for the eye, familiar grown With charms to common sight denied, The marvellous gift he shares alone With him who walked on Rydal-side;
Not for rapt hymn nor woodland lay, Too grave for smiles, too sweet for tears; We speak his praise who wears to-day The glory of his seventy years.
What this Textopian page supports
Bryant on his Birthday is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1842 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: 1842 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Lyric Poetry, Celebratory Poetry, Nature Poetry, Patriotic Poetry, Philosophical Poetry
- Length: 219 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for Bryant on his Birthday by John Greenleaf Whittier
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Genres
- Lyric Poetry — The work is a celebration of a poet's life and achievements, characterized by personal expression and emotional depth.
- Celebratory Poetry — The poem commemorates a significant milestone, specifically a birthday, highlighting themes of honor and reflection.
- Nature Poetry — The poem references nature and its connection to the poet's life and work, emphasizing the relationship between the individual and the natural world.
- Patriotic Poetry — The poem reflects on themes of freedom and national identity, particularly in the context of the historical period.
Tags
Poem · Children's Literature · Birthday · Nostalgia · Family · Friendship · Growing Up · Coming of Age · American Literature · 19th Century Literature · Verse · Rhyme