Disarmament
The poem explores the theme of war and its devastating consequences on individuals and society. It presents a critique of militarism and nationalism, advocating for peaceful resolution of conflicts through diplomacy and international cooperation. The speaker argues that war only leads to suffering, destruction, and loss of life, while disarmament would bring about peace, prosperity, and unity among nations.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1838 · Genre: Poetry, Social Commentary, Philosophical · 310 words
First lines
"PUT up the sword! " The voice of Christ once more Speaks, in the pauses of the cannon's roar, O'er fields of corn by fiery sickles reaped And left dry ashes; over trenches heaped With nameless dead; o'er cities starving slow Under a rain of fire; through wards of woe Down which a groaning diapason runs From tortured brothers, husbands, lovers, sons Of desolate women in their far-off homes, Waiting to hear the step that never comes! O men and brothers! let that voice be heard. War fails, try peace; put up the useless sword!
What this Textopian page supports
Disarmament is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1838 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: 1838 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Social Commentary, Philosophical, Religious, Historical
- Length: 310 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Disarmament by John Greenleaf Whittier
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and meter typical of poetry.
- Social Commentary — The themes address war, peace, and the human condition, reflecting on societal issues.
- Philosophical — The text explores deep moral and ethical questions regarding violence and love.
- Religious — It incorporates religious figures and themes, emphasizing messages of peace and compassion.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Peace Movement · Disarmament · War · Conflict Resolution · Social Commentary · Politics · Pacifism · Anti-War · Humanitarian