The Common Question by John Greenleaf Whittier
This poem explores the tension between tradition and progress, highlighting the struggle of individuals to reconcile their own desires with societal expectations. The speaker reflects on the passing of time and the changing values that accompany it, lamenting the loss of a bygone era while acknowledging the inevitability of progress. Through its exploration of nostalgia and social change, the poem offers a nuanced commentary on the human experience.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1827 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Religious · 256 words
First lines
Behind us at our evening meal The gray bird ate his fill, Swung downward by a single claw, And wiped his hooked bill.
He shook his wings and crimson tail, And set his head aslant, And, in his sharp, impatient way, Asked, "What does Charlie want?"
"Fie, silly bird! " I answered, "tuck Your head beneath your wing, And go to sleep; " -- but o'er and o'er He asked the self-same thing.
Then, smiling, to myself I said How like are men and birds! We all are saying what he says, In action or in words.
Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and meter typical of poetry.
- Philosophical — It explores deep themes of desire, prayer, and the human condition, prompting reflection on existence.
- Religious — The text addresses concepts of God, prayer, and divine will, indicating a spiritual dimension.
- Nature — It includes imagery of birds and nature, reflecting on the relationship between humanity and the natural world.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · 19th Century · New England · Social Commentary · Morality Tale · Free Verse · Symbolism · Nature Imagery · Human Condition · Existential Crisis · Faith vs Reason
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The Common Question is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1827 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: John Greenleaf Whittier
- Date: 1827 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Religious, Nature, Allegorical
- Length: 256 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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