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