The World's End
This poem is a narrative of a man who returns to the scene of his past mistakes and regrets, specifically a tavern where he had previously gotten drunk and made poor decisions. The speaker reflects on how time has passed and how he has changed, but also acknowledges that some things remain the same. The poem explores themes of nostalgia, regret, and personal growth.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1826 · Genre: Religious Literature, Philosophical, Social Commentary · 2,614 words
First lines
"Our Father Time is weak and gray, Awaiting for the better day; See how idiot-like he stands, Fumbling his old palsied hands! " SHELLEY's Masque of Anarchy.
"STAGE ready, gentlemen! Stage for campground, Derry! Second Advent camp-meeting!"
What this Textopian page supports
The World's End is listed on Textopian as a short story by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1826 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: John Greenleaf Whittier
- Date: 1826 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Literature, Philosophical, Social Commentary, Poetry, Historical Fiction
- Length: 2,614 words
- Structure: 1 section, 20 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The World's End 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 World's End?
- How does this short story by John Greenleaf Whittier fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Religious Literature first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Elliott by John Greenleaf Whittier
- I Reason Earth Is Short by Emily Dickinson
- The Grindstone by Robert Frost
- Oaks Tutt by Edgar Lee Masters
- Stars by Robert Frost
- Astra Castra by Emily Dickinson
Genres
- Religious Literature — The text explores themes of prophecy, the Second Advent, and spiritual beliefs, making it central to religious discourse.
- Philosophical — It engages with existential questions about the nature of good and evil, hope, and the future of humanity.
- Social Commentary — The work critiques societal beliefs and behaviors regarding faith and the anticipation of the end times.
- Poetry — The writing style incorporates poetic elements, including rhythm and imagery, reflecting the emotional depth of the themes.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry · 19th Century · Nature Poetry · Mortality · Existentialism · Philosophy · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Allegory · Fate