The Drovers
The poem tells the story of a group of drovers who are traveling through the countryside with their cattle. They are portrayed as rugged and independent individuals who are struggling to make a living in a harsh environment. The poem explores themes of hardship, perseverance, and the beauty of nature.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1838 · Genre: Narrative Poetry, Pastoral, Lyric Poetry · 718 words
First lines
THROUGH heat and cold, and shower and sun, Still onward cheerly driving There's life alone in duty done, And rest alone in striving. But see! the day is closing cool, The woods are dim before us; The white fog of the wayside pool Is creeping slowly o'er us.
The night is falling, comrades mine, Our footsore beasts are weary, And through yon elms the tavern sign Looks out upon us cheery. The landlord beckons from his door, His beechen fire is glowing; These ample barns, with feed in store, Are filled to overflowing.
What this Textopian page supports
The Drovers is listed on Textopian as a short story 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: Short story
- Author: John Greenleaf Whittier
- Date: 1838 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Narrative Poetry, Pastoral, Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Allegory
- Length: 718 words
- Structure: 1 section, 13 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Drovers by John Greenleaf Whittier
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Narrative Poetry — The work is primarily a poem that tells a story through vivid imagery and structured verse.
- Pastoral — The themes focus on rural life, nature, and the relationship between humans and the land.
- Lyric Poetry — The poem expresses personal emotions and reflections related to duty, nature, and companionship.
- Romanticism — The work embodies elements of Romanticism through its emphasis on nature, emotion, and individual experience.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · 19th Century · New England · Farming Life · Rural Setting · Drovers · Cattle Trade · Travel Narrative · Autobiographical Elements · Regionalism · Social Commentary