The Eve of Election
The poem describes a scene on the eve of an election, where people are gathered to discuss and debate the issues at hand. The speaker reflects on the divisions within society and the potential consequences of the outcome. The tone is one of caution and warning, urging readers to consider the implications of their choices.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1854 · Genre: Political Poetry, Social Commentary, Lyric Poetry · 497 words
First lines
FROM gold to gray Our mild sweet day Of Indian Summer fades too soon; But tenderly Above the sea Hangs, white and calm, the hunter's moon.
In its pale fire, The village spire Shows like the zodiac's spectral lance; The painted walls Whereon it falls Transfigured stand in marble trance!
What this Textopian page supports
The Eve of Election is listed on Textopian as an essay by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1854 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: John Greenleaf Whittier
- Date: 1854 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Political Poetry, Social Commentary, Lyric Poetry, Historical Poetry, Inspirational Poetry
- Length: 497 words
- Structure: 1 section, 16 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Eve of Election by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Eve of Election?
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- Where does Political Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Political Poetry — The work addresses themes of democracy, voting, and civic responsibility, reflecting on the political landscape.
- Social Commentary — It critiques societal attitudes towards freedom and the importance of active participation in governance.
- Lyric Poetry — The poem employs personal and emotional expression, focusing on the speaker's reflections and feelings about the election.
- Historical Poetry — It references historical figures and events, linking the present political situation to past struggles for freedom.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry · Politics · Election · Social Commentary · 19th Century · New England · Regionalism · Satire · Irony · Folk Culture · Rural Life