Our River by John Greenleaf Whittier
The poem describes a river that has witnessed the passage of time and the changing seasons. It reflects on the fleeting nature of human life and the inevitability of death. The speaker expresses a sense of melancholy and nostalgia for the past, while also acknowledging the beauty and tranquility of the present moment.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1863 · Genre: Poetry, Nature Writing, Romanticism · 629 words
First lines
FOR A SUMMER FESTIVAL AT "THE LAURELS" ON THE MERRIMAC.
What this Textopian page supports
Our River is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1863 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: 1863 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Nature Writing, Romanticism, Historical Reflection, Spiritual/Religious
- Length: 629 words
- Structure: 1 section, 11 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is primarily composed of verses that express emotions and themes through structured language and rhythm.
- Nature Writing — The poem vividly describes the natural beauty of the river and its surroundings, emphasizing the connection between nature and human experience.
- Romanticism — The themes of beauty, emotion, and the sublime in nature align with the characteristics of Romantic literature.
- Historical Reflection — The poem references historical figures and events, providing a context that reflects on the past and its impact on the present.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · River · American Literature · 19th Century · Free Verse · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Personification · Nostalgia · Longing