My Trust by John Greenleaf Whittier
The poem explores the theme of loyalty and devotion through the eyes of a woman who has been wronged by her lover but remains faithful to him despite his infidelity. The speaker's trust in her partner is unwavering, even when faced with evidence of his betrayal. She chooses to overlook his transgressions and instead focuses on the love they share, demonstrating a deep commitment to their relationship.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1827 · Genre: Poetry, Spiritual, Philosophical · 266 words
First lines
A picture memory brings to me I look across the years and see Myself beside my mother's knee.
I feel her gentle hand restrain My selfish moods, and know again A child's blind sense of wrong and pain.
But wiser now, a man gray grown, My childhood's needs are better known, My mother's chastening love I own.
Gray grown, but in our Father's sight A child still groping for the light To read His works and ways aright.
What this Textopian page supports
My Trust is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1827 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: 1827 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Spiritual, Philosophical, Reflective, Inspirational
- Length: 266 words
- Structure: 1 section, 12 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and meter characteristic of poetry.
- Spiritual — Themes of faith, divine providence, and the relationship between humanity and a higher power are central.
- Philosophical — Explores deep questions about suffering, purpose, and the nature of existence.
- Reflective — The narrative reflects on personal growth and the lessons learned from childhood experiences.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Free Verse · Nature Poetry · Romanticism · Love Poem · Trust · Faith · Relationships · Emotional · Intimate