The Pine-Tree by John Greenleaf Whittier
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.
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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: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Pine-Tree by John Greenleaf Whittier
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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