Laying up Treasure
The poem explores the theme of materialism and its consequences on one's spiritual well-being. It describes a person who has accumulated wealth but lacks true happiness and fulfillment. The speaker reflects on how this individual's focus on earthly possessions has led to a sense of emptiness and disconnection from what truly matters in life.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1866 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual · 66 words
First lines
From the Mahabharata.
Before the Ender comes, whose charioteer Is swift or slow Disease, lay up each year Thy harvests of well-doing, wealth that kings Nor thieves can take away. When all the things Thou tallest thine, goods, pleasures, honors fall, Thou in thy virtue shalt survive them all. 1881.
What this Textopian page supports
Laying up Treasure 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, Spiritual, Inspirational, Religious
- Length: 66 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Similar titles
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- Foundations by Henry Van Dyke
- At Least To Pray Is Left Is Left by Emily Dickinson
- Thy Will Be Done by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Revelation by John Greenleaf Whittier
- A Hymb Of Faith by James Whitcomb Riley
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Philosophical — It explores themes of virtue, morality, and the value of good deeds.
- Spiritual — The text reflects on spiritual wealth and the importance of inner values over material possessions.
- Inspirational — It aims to inspire readers to focus on moral actions and personal growth.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Religious Themes · Moral Allegory · Fable · Symbolism · Nature Imagery · Christianity · Faith · Morality · Virtue