The over-Heart
This poem explores the theme of love and loss through the metaphor of a heart that has been pierced by an arrow. The speaker describes the pain and longing that follows, comparing it to the physical sensation of being wounded. The poem suggests that love can be both beautiful and devastating, leaving one feeling vulnerable and exposed.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1827 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Philosophical Poetry, Spiritual Literature · 522 words
First lines
"For of Him, and through Him, and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever! " -- PAUL.
Above, below, in sky and sod, In leaf and spar, in star and man, Well might the wise Athenian scan The geometric signs of God, The measured order of His plan.
What this Textopian page supports
The over-Heart is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1827 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: 1827 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Philosophical Poetry, Spiritual Literature, Nature Poetry, Romanticism
- Length: 522 words
- Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The over-Heart by John Greenleaf Whittier
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Religious Poetry — The work explores themes of divinity, guilt, and redemption, characteristic of religious poetry.
- Philosophical Poetry — It delves into existential questions about the nature of God and humanity, reflecting philosophical inquiries.
- Spiritual Literature — The text emphasizes spiritual growth and understanding, aligning with the genre of spiritual literature.
- Nature Poetry — Imagery of nature is used to convey deeper truths about existence and divinity.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Free Verse · Nature Poetry · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Allegory · Romanticism · Emotional Expression · Inner Turmoil