The Pine-Tree
This poem is a nostalgic and sentimental tribute to the pine tree's enduring presence on New England's landscape. It reflects on the changing seasons and the passing of time, using the pine tree as a symbol of stability and continuity. The speaker expresses a sense of loss and longing for a bygone era, but ultimately finds solace in the tree's steadfastness.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1831 · Genre: Political Poetry, Social Commentary, Historical Poetry · 529 words
First lines
Written on hearing that the Anti-Slavery Resolves of Stephen C. Phillips had been rejected by the Whig Convention in Faneuil Hall, in 1846.
LIFT again the stately emblem on the Bay State's rusted shield, Give to Northern winds the Pine-Tree on our banner's tattered field. Sons of men who sat in council with their Bibles round the board, Answering England's royal missive with a firm, "Thus saith the Lord! " Rise again for home and freedom! set the battle in array! What the fathers did of old time we their sons must do to-day.
What this Textopian page supports
The Pine-Tree is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1831 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: 1831 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Political Poetry, Social Commentary, Historical Poetry, Patriotic Poetry, Lyric Poetry
- Length: 529 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Political Poetry — The work addresses political themes, particularly anti-slavery sentiments and the call for moral integrity in governance.
- Social Commentary — It critiques societal values and economic priorities, emphasizing the importance of honor and truth over material gain.
- Historical Poetry — The poem references historical events and figures, linking past struggles for freedom to contemporary issues.
- Patriotic Poetry — It expresses a strong sense of state pride and a call to action for the citizens of Massachusetts.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · American Literature · 19th Century · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Allegory · Folklore · Mythology · Patriotism · Nationalism