The Light that is Felt
This poem explores the theme of spiritual illumination and the struggle between good and evil. It describes a person who has experienced a profound moment of insight, but is now faced with the temptation to return to their former state of ignorance. The speaker reflects on the nature of this inner light and its relationship to the external world.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1837 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Inspirational Literature · 125 words
First lines
A tender child of summers three, Seeking her little bed at night, Paused on the dark stair timidly. "Oh, mother! Take my hand," said she, "And then the dark will all be light."
We older children grope our way From dark behind to dark before; And only when our hands we lay, Dear Lord, in Thine, the night is day, And there is darkness nevermore.
Reach downward to the sunless days Wherein our guides are blind as we, And faith is small and hope delays; Take Thou the hands of prayer we raise, And let us feel the light of Thee! 1884.
What this Textopian page supports
The Light that is Felt is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1837 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: 1837 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Inspirational Literature, Children's Poetry, Philosophical Poetry
- Length: 125 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Light that is Felt by John Greenleaf Whittier
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- Except The Heaven Had Come So Near by Emily Dickinson
- Our Share Of Night To Bear by Emily Dickinson
Genres
- Religious Poetry — The work explores themes of faith, divine guidance, and the relationship between humanity and the divine.
- Lyric Poetry — The poem expresses personal emotions and reflections, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Inspirational Literature — The themes of hope and seeking light in darkness provide inspiration and encouragement.
- Children's Poetry — The perspective of a child and the simplicity of the language make it accessible to younger audiences.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Nature Poetry · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Allegory · Spirituality · Mysticism · Light Imagery · Darkness