On a Fountain
The poem describes a scene of a woman standing alone on a hill overlooking a tranquil landscape with a fountain in the distance. The atmosphere is peaceful and serene, evoking a sense of calmness and solitude. The speaker reflects on the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death, using the image of the fountain as a metaphor for the transience of human existence.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1838 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Religious · 53 words
First lines
FOR DOROTHEA L. DIX.
Stranger and traveller, Drink freely and bestow A kindly thought on her Who bade this fountain flow, Yet hath no other claim Than as the minister Of blessing in God's name. Drink, and in His peace go 1879
What this Textopian page supports
On a Fountain is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1838 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: 1838 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Inspirational, Religious, Nature
- Length: 53 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Inspirational — The themes focus on kindness, peace, and the act of giving, which inspire reflection and goodwill.
- Religious — The text references God and conveys a spiritual message about blessings and peace.
- Nature — The imagery of a fountain suggests a connection to nature and the beauty of creation.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Romance · Love · Fountain · Symbolism · Metaphor · Imagery · Sensuality · Beauty · Elegy · Tone