The Problem
This poem explores the theme of social injustice and the struggles of the working class during the Industrial Revolution. It portrays a bleak picture of poverty, exploitation, and suffering, highlighting the need for reform and change. The speaker critiques the capitalist system and its effects on the poor, advocating for a more equitable society.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1827 · Genre: Social Commentary, Poetry, Philosophical · 265 words
First lines
I. NOT without envy Wealth at times must look On their brown strength who wield the reaping-hook And scythe, or at the forge-fire shape the plough Or the steel harness of the steeds of steam; All who, by skill and patience, anyhow Make service noble, and the earth redeem From savageness. By kingly accolade Than theirs was never worthier knighthood made. Well for them, if, while demagogues their vain And evil counsels proffer, they maintain Their honest manhood unseduced, and wage No war with Labor's right to Labor's gain Of sweet home-comfort, rest of hand and brain, And softer pillow for the head of Age.
What this Textopian page supports
The Problem 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: Social Commentary, Poetry, Philosophical, Political, Religious
- Length: 265 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Problem 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 Problem?
- How does this poem by John Greenleaf Whittier fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Social Commentary first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Valuation by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Expostulation by John Greenleaf Whittier
- The Common Question by John Greenleaf Whittier
- The Cable Hymn by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Official Piety by John Greenleaf Whittier
- The Disenthralled by John Greenleaf Whittier
Genres
- Social Commentary — The work addresses issues of wealth, labor, and social justice, reflecting on the relationship between different social classes.
- Poetry — The text is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure to convey its themes.
- Philosophical — It explores moral and ethical questions regarding labor, wealth distribution, and human rights.
- Political — The content critiques political ideologies and advocates for the rights of workers.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Social Commentary · Critique of Society · Moral Allegory · Fable · Satire · Prose Poetry · Free Verse · Nature Imagery · Symbolism