O. W. Holmes on his Eightieth Birth-Day
The poem is a tribute to Oliver Wendell Holmes on his 80th birthday. It praises his literary contributions and celebrates his enduring legacy. The speaker reflects on Holmes' life and work, highlighting his wit, humor, and insight into human nature. The poem also touches on the passing of time and the fleeting nature of life, but ultimately affirms the significance of Holmes' writing and its continued relevance.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1865 · Genre: Poetry, Biography, Celebratory Literature · 122 words
First lines
Climbing a path which leads back never more We heard behind his footsteps and his cheer; Now, face to face, we greet him standing here Upon the lonely summit of Fourscore Welcome to us, o'er whom the lengthened day Is closing and the shadows colder grow, His genial presence, like an afterglow, Following the one just vanishing away. Long be it ere the table shall be set For the last breakfast of the Autocrat, And love repeat with smiles and tears thereat His own sweet songs that time shall not forget. Waiting with us the call to come up higher, Life is not less, the heavens are only higher!
What this Textopian page supports
O. W. Holmes on his Eightieth Birth-Day is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1865 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: 1865 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Biography, Celebratory Literature, Philosophical, Inspirational
- Length: 122 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Similar titles
- In Memoriam by Henry Van Dyke
- To Oliver Wendell Holmes by John Greenleaf Whittier
- John Boyle Oreilly Sepulture Boston August 13 1890 by James Whitcomb Riley
- To Anne Oh Say Not Sweet Anne by Lord Byron
- Lines To Hon Thaddeus Stevens by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- To My Sister A Belated Offering For Her Birthday by James Whitcomb Riley
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Biography — It reflects on the life and contributions of a significant individual, celebrating their legacy.
- Celebratory Literature — The text commemorates a milestone birthday, focusing on themes of reflection and appreciation.
- Philosophical — It explores themes of life, mortality, and the passage of time.
Tags
Poetry · Ode · Birthday · Celebration · Holmes · Whittier · American Literature · 19th Century · Literary Tribute · Praise · Commemoration · Verse