The Fishermen
The poem tells the story of four fishermen who set out to sea on a stormy night. They are caught in a fierce gale and their boat is wrecked. The survivors cling to a piece of wreckage, but one by one they succumb to exhaustion and drown. Only one fisherman remains, who eventually dies as well.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1835 · Genre: Poetry, Nature Writing, Adventure · 542 words
First lines
HURRAH! the seaward breezes Sweep down the bay amain; Heave up, my lads, the anchor! Run up the sail again Leave to the lubber landsmen The rail-car and the steed; The stars of heaven shall guide us, The breath of heaven shall speed.
From the hill-top looks the steeple, And the lighthouse from the sand; And the scattered pines are waving Their farewell from the land. One glance, my lads, behind us, For the homes we leave one sigh, Ere we take the change and chances Of the ocean and the sky.
What this Textopian page supports
The Fishermen is listed on Textopian as a short story by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1835 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: 1835 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Nature Writing, Adventure, Romanticism, Regionalism
- Length: 542 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Fishermen by John Greenleaf Whittier
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and meter typical of poetry.
- Nature Writing — The text vividly describes the sea, landscapes, and natural elements, emphasizing the relationship between humans and nature.
- Adventure — The narrative involves themes of exploration and the challenges of fishing at sea, embodying an adventurous spirit.
- Romanticism — The work reflects romantic ideals, focusing on emotion, nature, and the sublime experience of the sea.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Fishing Industry · Maritime Life · Nautical Imagery · Symbolism · Allegory · Social Commentary · Class Struggle · Labor Rights · Industrialization