Forgiveness
The poem explores the theme of forgiveness and its relationship to personal growth and redemption. It presents a narrative voice that reflects on past mistakes and hurtful actions, acknowledging the pain caused and expressing a desire for forgiveness from others. The speaker's introspection reveals a complex emotional landscape, marked by regret, remorse, and a longing for reconciliation. Through this exploration, Whittier highlights the importance of confronting one's own flaws and weaknesses in order to move forward. Ultimately, the poem suggests that true forgiveness can only be achieved through a genuine acknowledgment of wrongdoing and a willingness to make amends. This process is portrayed as a difficult but ultimately transformative journey towards healing and redemption.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1866 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Religious · 130 words
First lines
My heart was heavy, for its trust had been Abused, its kindness answered with foul wrong; So, turning gloomily from my fellow-men, One summer Sabbath day I strolled among The green mounds of the village burial-place; Where, pondering how all human love and hate Find one sad level; and how, soon or late, Wronged and wrongdoer, each with meekened face, And cold hands folded over a still heart, Pass the green threshold of our common grave, Whither all footsteps tend, whence none depart, Awed for myself, and pitying my race, Our common sorrow, like a nighty wave, Swept all my pride away, and trembling I forgave! 1846.
What this Textopian page supports
Forgiveness is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1866 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: 1866 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Religious, Romanticism, Narrative
- Length: 130 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Confusing
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and meter typical of poetry.
- Philosophical — It explores deep themes of forgiveness, human relationships, and mortality.
- Religious — The themes of forgiveness and moral reflection suggest a spiritual or religious context.
- Romanticism — The emotional depth and focus on nature align with Romantic literary characteristics.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Forgiveness Theme · Moral Lesson · Christianity · Spirituality · Philosophy · Ethics · Morality · Self-Reflection · Personal Growth