Encouragement by Madison Cawein
The poem explores themes of hope, faith, and the human struggle against adversity. It begins by invoking nature as a source of inspiration and guidance. The imagery of trees symbolizes stability and wisdom, offering a "council" that nurtures hope. The stars represent a higher power, providing reassurance and serving as "gospels" that uplift faith. The speaker calls for divine assistance to overcome life's challenges, emphasizing the need for strength and resilience. The "rock-rough pathway" signifies the difficulties faced in life, while the "care-dark way of time" reflects the burdens and uncertainties that accompany existence. The poem ultimately conveys a message of perseverance, urging individuals to draw strength from both nature and spirituality to navigate their journeys.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Religious · 119 words
First lines
To help our tired hope to toil, Lo! have we not the council here Of trees, that to all hope appear As sermons of the soil?
To help our flagging faith to rise, Lo! have we not the high advice Of stars, that for all faith suffice As gospels of the skies?
Sustain us, Lord! and help us climb, With hope and faith made strong and great, The rock-rough pathway of our fate, The care-dark way of time!
What this Textopian page supports
Encouragement is listed on Textopian as a poem by Madison Cawein, dated 1903 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Madison Cawein
- Date: 1903 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Inspirational, Religious, Nature, Philosophical
- Length: 119 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of hope and faith.
- Inspirational — The themes of encouragement and support for perseverance are central to the text.
- Religious — The references to divine assistance and spiritual guidance indicate a religious undertone.
- Nature — The imagery of trees and stars suggests a connection to the natural world as a source of inspiration.
Tags
Poetry · Inspirational · Motivational · Uplifting · Optimistic · Hopeful · Empowering · Encouraging · Positive · Affirming · Moral · Philosophical