The poem tells the story of a shipwreck off the coast of New England during a storm. The narrator describes the wreck and its aftermath, focusing on the loss of life and property. The poem explores themes of mortality, nature's power, and the human condition. It is written in a formal, lyrical style with a strong emphasis on rhythm and meter.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1850 · Genre: Narrative Poetry, Historical Fiction, Romanticism