The New Year
The poem describes the passing of time and the inevitability of death. It reflects on the fleeting nature of human life and the importance of making the most of the present moment. The speaker expresses a sense of melancholy and regret for past mistakes, but also finds solace in the beauty of nature and the promise of new beginnings.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1826 · Genre: Poetry, Social Commentary, Religious · 1,140 words
First lines
Addressed to the Patrons of the Pennsylvania Freeman.
THE wave is breaking on the shore, The echo fading from the chime Again the shadow moveth o'er The dial-plate of time!
What this Textopian page supports
The New Year is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1826 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: 1826 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Social Commentary, Religious, Historical, Nature
- Length: 1,140 words
- Structure: 1 section, 40 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The New Year by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The New Year?
- How does this poem by John Greenleaf Whittier fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and meter typical of poetry.
- Social Commentary — It addresses social issues, particularly slavery and freedom, reflecting on moral and ethical concerns.
- Religious — Themes of divine justice and moral righteousness are prevalent, indicating a religious undertone.
- Historical — The context of the poem relates to historical events and societal conditions of the time.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · New Year's Theme · Reflection · Hope · Renewal · Seasonal · Winter · Nature Imagery · Symbolism · Allegory