To George B. Cheever
The poem is a tribute to the abolitionist George B. Cheever, who was a minister and writer. It portrays him as a champion of social justice, particularly in his fight against slavery. The speaker praises Cheever's unwavering commitment to his principles and his courage in speaking out against injustice.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1848 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Social Critique · 170 words
First lines
So spake Esaias: so, in words of flame, Tekoa's prophet-herdsman smote with blame The traffickers in men, and put to shame, All earth and heaven before, The sacerdotal robbers of the poor.
All the dread Scripture lives for thee again, To smite like lightning on the hands profane Lifted to bless the slave-whip and the chain. Once more the old Hebrew tongue Bends with the shafts of God a bow new-strung!
Take up the mantle which the prophets wore; Warn with their warnings, show the Christ once more Bound, scourged, and crucified in His blameless poor; And shake above our land The unquenched bolts that blazed in Hosea's hand!
What this Textopian page supports
To George B. Cheever is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1848 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: 1848 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Social Critique, Historical, Inspirational
- Length: 170 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Religious — It addresses themes of faith, morality, and biblical references.
- Social Critique — The text critiques societal issues, particularly regarding slavery and injustice.
- Historical — It reflects on historical contexts and figures, particularly in relation to moral and ethical struggles.
Tags
Poem · American Literature · 19th Century · Free Verse · Social Justice · Abolitionist · Slavery · Emancipation · Freedom · Equality · Human Rights · Ethics