The Well of Loch Maree
The poem describes a mystical and ancient well located on the shores of Loch Maree in Scotland. The well is said to have healing properties and is believed to grant eternal youth to those who drink from it. However, the poem also warns that the well's power comes at a terrible cost, as those who drink from it are doomed to roam the earth for eternity, never aging but also never finding peace. The poem explores themes of beauty, temptation, and the dangers of seeking immortality. It is written in a lyrical and descriptive style, with vivid imagery and symbolism that evokes a sense of wonder and foreboding.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1842 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Spiritual · 204 words
First lines
Pennant, in his Voyage to the Hebrides, describes the holy well of Loch Maree, the waters of which were supposed to effect a miraculous cure of melancholy, trouble, and insanity.
CALM on the breast of Loch Maree A little isle reposes; A shadow woven of the oak And willow o'er it closes.
Within, a Druid's mound is seen, Set round with stony warders; A fountain, gushing through the turf, Flows o'er its grassy borders.
And whoso bathes therein his brow, With care or madness burning, Feels once again his healthful thought And sense of peace returning.
What this Textopian page supports
The Well of Loch Maree is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1842 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: 1842 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Spiritual, Nature Writing, Legend
- Length: 204 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and meter typical of poetry.
- Romanticism — Themes of nature, emotion, and the sublime are prevalent, characteristic of the Romantic genre.
- Spiritual — The text explores themes of healing, faith, and the divine, indicating a spiritual dimension.
- Nature Writing — The vivid descriptions of the landscape and natural elements reflect a focus on nature.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Scotland · Lake · Mystery · Romance · Folklore · Mythology · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Allegory