Requital by John Greenleaf Whittier
The poem explores the theme of revenge and its consequences. It tells the story of a man who seeks retribution for past wrongs, but ultimately finds that his actions lead to more suffering and pain. The speaker reflects on the futility of seeking revenge and the importance of forgiveness.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1838 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Philosophical Poetry, Narrative Poetry · 153 words
First lines
As Islam's Prophet, when his last day drew Nigh to its close, besought all men to say Whom he had wronged, to whom he then should pay A debt forgotten, or for pardon sue, And, through the silence of his weeping friends, A strange voice cried: "Thou owest me a debt," "Allah be praised! " he answered. "Even yet He gives me power to make to thee amends. O friend! I thank thee for thy timely word. " So runs the tale. Its lesson all may heed, For all have sinned in thought, or word, or deed, Or, like the Prophet, through neglect have erred. All need forgiveness, all have debts to pay Ere the night cometh, while it still is day. 1885.
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Requital 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: Religious Poetry, Philosophical Poetry, Narrative Poetry, Didactic Poetry, Lyric Poetry
- Length: 153 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Religious Poetry — The work explores themes of forgiveness, sin, and moral responsibility, central to many religious teachings.
- Philosophical Poetry — It delves into existential themes regarding human error and the need for atonement.
- Narrative Poetry — The poem tells a story that conveys a moral lesson through a narrative structure.
- Didactic Poetry — It aims to instruct readers on the importance of acknowledging one's wrongs and seeking forgiveness.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Free Verse · Nature Poetry · Mourning · Loss · Grief · Death · Revenge · Justice · Morality