To Massachusetts
The poem is a tribute to the state of Massachusetts and its people. It describes the state's natural beauty, from the mountains to the sea, and praises its history, culture, and values. The speaker expresses pride in the state's heritage and its contributions to American life. The tone is patriotic and celebratory, with a focus on the state's unique character and identity.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1826 · Genre: Poetry, Political, Patriotic · 470 words
First lines
WHAT though around thee blazes No fiery rallying sign? From all thy own high places, Give heaven the light of thine! What though unthrilled, unmoving, The statesman stand apart, And comes no warm approving From Mammon's crowded mart?
Still, let the land be shaken By a summons of thine own! By all save truth forsaken, Stand fast with that alone! Shrink not from strife unequal! With the best is always hope; And ever in the sequel God holds the right side up!
What this Textopian page supports
To Massachusetts is listed on Textopian as a poem 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: Poem
- Author: John Greenleaf Whittier
- Date: 1826 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Political, Patriotic, Romanticism, Social Commentary
- Length: 470 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for To Massachusetts by John Greenleaf Whittier
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and meter typical of poetry.
- Political — The themes focus on freedom, justice, and the political landscape of the time.
- Patriotic — The text expresses strong nationalistic sentiments and a call to action for the homeland.
- Romanticism — The work reflects ideals of emotion, nature, and individualism characteristic of the Romantic movement.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry · 19th Century · New England · Autobiographical · Biographical · Historical Fiction · Free Verse · Nature Poetry · Social Commentary · Slavery · Abolitionism