Expostulation
The poem Expostulation is a critique of the societal pressures and expectations placed on individuals, particularly young people, to conform to certain norms and values. It expresses frustration with the idea that one's life path should be predetermined by external forces rather than personal choice or desire. The speaker argues that individuals should be free to pursue their own goals and aspirations without fear of judgment or reprisal from society.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1827 · Genre: Poetry, Political Literature, Social Commentary · 1,161 words
First lines
Dr. Charles Follen, a German patriot, who had come to America for the freedom which was denied him in his native land, allied himself with the abolitionists, and at a convention of delegates from all the anti- slavery organizations in New England, held at Boston in May, 1834, was chairman of a committee to prepare an address to the people of New England. Toward the close of the address occurred the passage which suggested these lines. "The despotism which our fathers could not bear in their native country is expiring, and the sword of justice in her reformed hands has applied its exterminating edge to slavery. Shall the United States -- the free United States, which could not bear the bonds of a king -- cradle the bondage which a king is abolishing? Shall a Republic be less free than a Monarchy? Shall we, in the vigor and buoyancy of our manhood, be less energetic in righteousness than a kingdom in its age? " -- Dr. Follen's Address.
What this Textopian page supports
Expostulation is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1827 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: 1827 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Political Literature, Social Commentary, Abolitionist Literature, Historical Literature
- Length: 1,161 words
- Structure: 1 section, 16 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Expostulation by John Greenleaf Whittier
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- The Problem by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Official Piety by John Greenleaf Whittier
- The Freed Islands by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Ego by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Valuation by John Greenleaf Whittier
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Political Literature — It addresses themes of freedom, justice, and the abolition of slavery, engaging with political issues of the time.
- Social Commentary — The text critiques societal norms and injustices, particularly regarding slavery and human rights.
- Abolitionist Literature — It specifically advocates for the abolition of slavery and highlights the moral imperative to act against it.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Free Verse · Social Commentary · Critique of Society · Moral Reflections · Philosophical Themes · Existentialism · Spirituality · Nature Imagery · Symbolism