Valuation by John Greenleaf Whittier
The poem explores the theme of material wealth and its relationship to true value. It argues that possessions are fleeting and ultimately worthless compared to the beauty and worth of nature. The speaker reflects on the transience of human life and the inevitability of death, suggesting that our attachment to material goods is a futile attempt to defy mortality.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1846 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Social Commentary · 240 words
First lines
THE old Squire said, as he stood by his gate, And his neighbor, the Deacon, went by, "In spite of my bank stock and real estate, You are better off, Deacon, than I.
"We're both growing old, and the end's drawing near, You have less of this world to resign, But in Heaven's appraisal your assets, I fear, Will reckon up greater than mine.
"They say I am rich, but I'm feeling so poor, I wish I could swap with you even The pounds I have lived for and laid up in store For the shillings and pence you have given."
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Valuation is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1846 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: John Greenleaf Whittier
- Date: 1846 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Social Commentary, Narrative, Humor
- Length: 240 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Philosophical — It explores themes of wealth, value, and moral reflection on materialism versus spiritual wealth.
- Social Commentary — The dialogue between characters reflects societal views on wealth and morality.
- Narrative — The text presents a narrative through the interaction of characters discussing their life perspectives.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Free Verse · Nature Poetry · Social Commentary · Moral Allegory · Fable · Satire · Philosophical Themes · Existentialism · Human Condition