Eva by John Greenleaf Whittier
The poem tells the story of a young woman who dies after giving birth to twins. The speaker reflects on her life and death, noting that she was beautiful and kind, but also poor and uneducated. He contrasts her fate with that of wealthy women who live long lives despite their lack of virtue.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1845 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Sentimental · 224 words
First lines
Suggested by Mrs. Stowe's tale of Uncle Tom's Cabin, and written when the characters in the tale were realities by the fireside of countless American homes.
Dry the tears for holy Eva, With the blessed angels leave her; Of the form so soft and fair Give to earth the tender care.
For the golden locks of Eva Let the sunny south-land give her Flowery pillow of repose, Orange-bloom and budding rose.
In the better home of Eva Let the shining ones receive her, With the welcome-voiced psalm, Harp of gold and waving palm,
What this Textopian page supports
Eva is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1845 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: 1845 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Sentimental, Social Commentary, Romanticism
- Length: 224 words
- Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetic forms.
- Religious — Themes of faith, salvation, and the afterlife are central, reflecting religious beliefs and values.
- Sentimental — The emotional tone and focus on love, loss, and compassion evoke strong feelings, typical of sentimental literature.
- Social Commentary — The work reflects on societal issues, particularly in relation to suffering and morality, influenced by contemporary social concerns.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry · Romance · 19th Century · New England · Feminism · Social Commentary · Marriage · Love · Family · Society · Morality