Mary Garvin
The poem is a tribute to Mary Garvin, a young woman who died of tuberculosis at the age of 19. It explores themes of mortality, love, and loss. The speaker reflects on Mary's life, her beauty, and her untimely death, expressing his own grief and sense of longing.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1842 · Genre: Poetry, Historical Fiction, Romance · 1,358 words
First lines
FROM the heart of Waumbek Methna, from the lake that never fails, Falls the Saco in the green lap of Conway's intervales; There, in wild and virgin freshness, its waters foam and flow, As when Darby Field first saw them, two hundred years ago.
But, vexed in all its seaward course with bridges, dams, and mills, How changed is Saco's stream, how lost its freedom of the hills, Since travelled Jocelyn, factor Vines, and stately Champernoon Heard on its banks the gray wolf's howl, the trumpet of the loon!
What this Textopian page supports
Mary Garvin is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1842 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: 1842 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Historical Fiction, Romance, Religious, Drama
- Length: 1,358 words
- Structure: 1 section, 43 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for Mary Garvin by John Greenleaf Whittier
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and meter characteristic of poetry.
- Historical Fiction — The narrative incorporates historical elements and settings, reflecting on past events and cultural contexts.
- Romance — Themes of familial love and reunion are central to the plot, highlighting emotional connections.
- Religious — The text explores themes of faith, spirituality, and the significance of religious beliefs in personal relationships.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · 19th Century · Free Verse · Nature Poetry · Romanticism · Feminine Perspective · Domestic Life · Marriage · Family Dynamics · Social Commentary · Regionalism