The Disenthralled
This poem explores the theme of disillusionment and spiritual crisis. It describes a person who has lost faith in traditional Christianity and is struggling to find meaning in life. The speaker expresses feelings of disconnection from God and society, and grapples with the idea that their former beliefs may have been based on false premises.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1838 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Philosophical · 243 words
First lines
HE had bowed down to drunkenness, An abject worshipper The pride of manhood's pulse had grown Too faint and cold to stir; And he had given his spirit up To the unblessed thrall, And bowing to the poison cup, He gloried in his fall!
There came a change -- the cloud rolled off, And light fell on his brain -- And like the passing of a dream That cometh not again, The shadow of the spirit fled. He saw the gulf before, He shuddered at the waste behind, And was a man once more.
What this Textopian page supports
The Disenthralled 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: Poetry, Romanticism, Philosophical, Social Commentary, Narrative
- Length: 243 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and meter characteristic of poetry.
- Romanticism — Themes of individual struggle, emotional depth, and the glorification of personal redemption align with Romantic ideals.
- Philosophical — Explores themes of intellect, reason, and moral judgment, prompting reflection on human nature and personal growth.
- Social Commentary — Addresses issues of addiction and personal responsibility, critiquing societal norms surrounding these themes.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Free Verse · Social Commentary · Slavery · Abolitionism · Morality · Ethics · Philosophy · Human Rights · Freedom