Inscription
The poem explores the theme of love and loss through a series of inscriptions on a tombstone. The speaker reflects on the deceased's life, highlighting their virtues and accomplishments, while also acknowledging the pain of their passing. The poem ultimately conveys a sense of longing and nostalgia for what has been lost.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1850 · Genre: Poetry, Nature, Historical · 68 words
First lines
For the bass-relief by Preston Powers, carved upon the huge boulder in Denver Park, Col., and representing the Last Indian and the Last Bison.
The eagle, stooping from yon snow-blown peaks, For the wild hunter and the bison seeks, In the changed world below; and finds alone Their graven semblance in the eternal stone.
What this Textopian page supports
Inscription is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1850 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: 1850 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Nature, Historical, Philosophical, Cultural
- Length: 68 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Inscription 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
- The Grindstone by Robert Frost
- Aftermath by Emily Dickinson
- Death And Life by Emily Dickinson
- Within The Gate by John Greenleaf Whittier
- The Waiting by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Evening by Emily Dickinson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Nature — Themes of nature and the relationship between humanity and the natural world are central.
- Historical — The poem reflects on historical themes, particularly regarding indigenous peoples and wildlife.
- Philosophical — It explores deeper philosophical questions about existence and legacy.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Nature · Romanticism · Symbolism · Mortality · Loss · Grief · Memory · Time · Ephemerality