For Righteousness' Sake
The poem explores the tension between personal conviction and societal expectations. It portrays a protagonist who feels compelled to act with integrity despite potential consequences. The speaker's actions are driven by a sense of righteousness rather than self-interest or external pressures.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1837 · Genre: Poetry, Social Commentary, Political Literature · 298 words
First lines
Inscribed to friends under arrest for treason against the slave power.
THE age is dull and mean. Men creep, Not walk; with blood too pale and tame To pay the debt they owe to shame; Buy cheap, sell dear; eat, drink, and sleep Down-pillowed, deaf to moaning want; Pay tithes for soul-insurance; keep Six days to Mammon, one to Cant.
In such a time, give thanks to God, That somewhat of the holy rage With which the prophets in their age On all its decent seemings trod, Has set your feet upon the lie, That man and ox and soul and clod Are market stock to sell and buy!
What this Textopian page supports
For Righteousness' Sake is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1837 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: 1837 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Social Commentary, Political Literature, Philosophical Literature, Historical Literature
- Length: 298 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Social Commentary — It addresses social issues, particularly the moral implications of slavery and justice.
- Political Literature — The text engages with themes of political struggle and advocacy for freedom.
- Philosophical Literature — It explores deeper moral and ethical questions regarding righteousness and human dignity.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · Social Justice · Abolitionist · Slavery · Morality · Ethics · Religion · Christianity · Puritanism · New England · 19th Century