The Healer
The poem tells the story of a healer who has been wronged and seeks revenge against those who have harmed him. He uses his knowledge of medicine to kill off his enemies one by one, but ultimately meets his own demise when he realizes that his actions are motivated by a desire for revenge rather than a genuine desire to heal others.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1828 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Inspirational Literature, Philosophical Poetry · 219 words
First lines
TO A YOUNG PHYSICIAN, WITH DORE'S PICTURE OF CHRIST HEALING THE SICK.
So stood of old the holy Christ Amidst the suffering throng; With whom His lightest touch sufficed To make the weakest strong.
That healing gift He lends to them Who use it in His name; The power that filled His garment's hem Is evermore the same.
For lo! in human hearts unseen The Healer dwelleth still, And they who make His temples clean The best subserve His will.
What this Textopian page supports
The Healer is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1828 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: 1828 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Inspirational Literature, Philosophical Poetry, Medical Poetry, Narrative Poetry
- Length: 219 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Healer 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
- Religious Poetry — The poem explores themes of healing and divine intervention, reflecting a strong religious context.
- Inspirational Literature — It aims to inspire and encourage those in the healing profession, emphasizing hope and compassion.
- Philosophical Poetry — The work delves into the deeper meanings of life, suffering, and the human condition.
- Medical Poetry — It addresses the role of physicians and the healing arts, linking them to a higher purpose.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Nature · Spirituality · Mortality · Healing · Hope · Faith · Philosophy · Existentialism · Symbolism