The Friend's Burial
A young woman dies and is buried by her friend who reflects on their relationship and the loss of innocence that has occurred. The poem explores themes of friendship, love, and mortality.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1843 · Genre: Elegy, Religious, Lyric Poetry · 530 words
First lines
My thoughts are all in yonder town, Where, wept by many tears, To-day my mother's friend lays down The burden of her years.
True as in life, no poor disguise Of death with her is seen, And on her simple casket lies No wreath of bloom and green.
What this Textopian page supports
The Friend's Burial is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1843 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: 1843 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Elegy, Religious, Lyric Poetry, Nature Poetry, Inspirational
- Length: 530 words
- Structure: 1 section, 21 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Friend's Burial by John Greenleaf Whittier
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Friend's Burial?
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- Where does Elegy first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Elegy — The poem reflects on death and mourning, capturing the emotions associated with loss and remembrance.
- Religious — Themes of faith, prayer, and the afterlife are central, emphasizing the spiritual aspects of life and death.
- Lyric Poetry — The personal and emotional expression of feelings related to loss and reverence characterizes the lyrical style.
- Nature Poetry — Imagery of nature is used to convey emotions and reflect on life cycles, connecting the natural world with human experiences.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Friendship · Grief · Loss · Mourning · Nature · Symbolism · Imagery · Tone · Melancholy