The Singer
The poem tells the story of a young woman who has been wronged by her lover and seeks revenge through a series of manipulations that ultimately lead to his downfall. The speaker's tone is one of cold calculation, devoid of emotion or remorse.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1825 · Genre: Poetry, Elegy, Lyric · 770 words
First lines
This poem was written on the death of Alice Cary. Her sister Phoebe, heart-broken by her loss, followed soon after. Noble and richly gifted, lovely in person and character, they left behind them only friends and admirers.
Years since (but names to me before), Two sisters sought at eve my door; Two song-birds wandering from their nest, A gray old farm-house in the West.
What this Textopian page supports
The Singer is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1825 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: 1825 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Elegy, Lyric, Romanticism, Narrative
- Length: 770 words
- Structure: 1 section, 25 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is a poem that explores themes of loss, memory, and the impact of a singer's life.
- Elegy — It serves as a tribute to the deceased sisters, reflecting on their lives and the sorrow of their passing.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, characteristic of lyrical poetry.
- Romanticism — It emphasizes emotion, nature, and individual experience, aligning with Romantic ideals.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Free Verse · Nature Poetry · Romanticism · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Simile · Personification · Allegory