The Christmas of 1888
This poem describes a bleak and snowy winter scene on Christmas Eve, where the narrator reflects on the harsh realities of life and the struggles of the working class during the Industrial Revolution. The poem highlights the stark contrast between the wealthy elite's festive celebrations and the poverty-stricken lives of the common people. It also touches on themes of social justice, inequality, and the need for reform.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1825 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Seasonal · 250 words
First lines
Low in the east, against a white, cold dawn, The black-lined silhouette of the woods was drawn, And on a wintry waste Of frosted streams and hillsides bare and brown, Through thin cloud-films, a pallid ghost looked down, The waning moon half-faced!
In that pale sky and sere, snow-waiting earth, What sign was there of the immortal birth? What herald of the One? Lo! swift as thought the heavenly radiance came, A rose-red splendor swept the sky like flame, Up rolled the round, bright sun!
What this Textopian page supports
The Christmas of 1888 is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1825 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: 1825 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Seasonal, Nature, Historical
- Length: 250 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and imagery characteristic of poetry.
- Religious — The themes revolve around the birth of Christ and the celebration of Christmas, highlighting spiritual significance.
- Seasonal — The narrative is centered around the Christmas season, reflecting on its traditions and meanings.
- Nature — The descriptions of the winter landscape and natural elements play a significant role in setting the scene.
Tags
Poetry · Christmas · Nineteenth Century · American Literature · Holiday Story · Family · Tradition · Winter · New England · Rural Setting · Domestic Life · Social Commentary