The Cry of a Lost Soul
This poem explores the theme of isolation and despair through the voice of a lost soul who feels disconnected from society and God. The speaker laments their fate, feeling abandoned by both humanity and divine providence. They express a deep sense of sorrow and desperation, yearning for connection and understanding that seems elusive.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1827 · Genre: Poetry, Spiritual, Nature Writing · 506 words
First lines
Lieutenant Herndon's Report of the Exploration of the Amazon has a striking description of the peculiar and melancholy notes of a bird heard by night on the shores of the river. The Indian guides called it "The Cry of a Lost Soul"! Among the numerous translations of this poem is one by the Emperor of Brazil.
In that black forest, where, when day is done, With a snake's stillness glides the Amazon Darkly from sunset to the rising sun,
What this Textopian page supports
The Cry of a Lost Soul is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1827 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: 1827 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Spiritual, Nature Writing, Romanticism, Philosophical
- Length: 506 words
- Structure: 1 section, 16 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on emotional expression and imagery.
- Spiritual — Themes of redemption, divine presence, and the nature of the soul are central to the text.
- Nature Writing — The vivid descriptions of the Amazon and its surroundings highlight the relationship between nature and human emotion.
- Romanticism — The emphasis on emotion, individual experience, and the sublime aspects of nature aligns with Romantic ideals.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Free Verse · Nature Poetry · Mourning · Loss · Longing · Solitude · Isolation · Emotional Expression · Inner Turmoil