The New Wife and the Old
This poem explores the contrast between a new wife's idealized view of marriage and her husband's actual behavior, versus an older woman who has experienced the reality of marriage and its disillusionments. The speaker describes how the young bride sees her husband as perfect, but soon discovers his flaws, while the older woman knows that no man is perfect and that marriage involves compromise and sacrifice.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1853 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Gothic · 1,006 words
First lines
The following ballad is founded upon one of the marvellous legends connected with the famous General -- -- , of Hampton, New Hampshire, who was regarded by his neighbors as a Yankee Faust, in league with the adversary. I give the story, as I heard it when a child, from a venerable family visitant.
DARK the halls, and cold the feast, Gone the bridemaids, gone the priest. All is over, all is done, Twain of yesterday are one! Blooming girl and manhood gray, Autumn in the arms of May!
What this Textopian page supports
The New Wife and the Old is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1853 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: 1853 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Gothic, Ballad, Narrative
- Length: 1,006 words
- Structure: 1 section, 22 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The New Wife and the Old by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
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Similar titles
- Forfeiture by Helen Hay Whitney
- An Interpretation by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
- At The Bridal by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Wine From These Grapes by Edna St Vincent Millay
- The Sisters by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Honeymoon Scene From The Drama Of Mizpah by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured as a ballad, utilizing rhythmic and lyrical elements typical of poetry.
- Romanticism — Themes of love, nature, and emotional depth align with the characteristics of Romantic literature.
- Gothic — The presence of supernatural elements and a dark atmosphere contributes to a Gothic sensibility.
- Ballad — The narrative style and storytelling format are consistent with traditional ballads.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Marriage · Relationships · Social Commentary · Domestic Life · Family Dynamics · Love · Jealousy · Insecurity · Identity