To the Memory of Thomas Shipley
The poem is a tribute to Thomas Shipley, a young man who died at sea. It reflects on the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death. The speaker expresses regret that Shipley's life was cut short, but also acknowledges that his fate was sealed from the beginning. The poem explores themes of mortality, loss, and the transience of human existence.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1826 · Genre: Poetry, Elegy, Religious · 569 words
First lines
Thomas Shipley of Philadelphia was a lifelong Christian philanthropist, and advocate of emancipation. At his funeral thousands of colored people came to take their last look at their friend and protector. He died September 17, 1836.
GONE to thy Heavenly Father's rest! The flowers of Eden round thee blowing, And on thine ear the murmurs blest Of Siloa's waters softly flowing!
What this Textopian page supports
To the Memory of Thomas Shipley 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, Elegy, Religious, Social Commentary, Inspirational
- Length: 569 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for To the Memory of Thomas Shipley by John Greenleaf Whittier
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing meter and rhyme, characteristic of poetic form.
- Elegy — The text mourns the death of Thomas Shipley, reflecting on themes of loss and remembrance.
- Religious — The poem expresses Christian themes, including faith, salvation, and the afterlife.
- Social Commentary — It addresses social issues such as emancipation and the plight of the oppressed.
Tags
Poem · Elegy · Memorial · Tribute · Friendship · Loss · Grief · Nostalgia · Nature · Imagery · Symbolism · Literary