Dedication of a Temperance Hall
The work presents a ceremonial dedication of a hall dedicated to temperance, emphasizing the importance of moral integrity and the pursuit of truth. It opens with a poetic invocation to the divine, recognizing the source of all gifts and virtues, particularly temperance and truth. The imagery of a temple rising from a water-cup symbolizes purity and the transformative power of these ideals. The text highlights the role of women in the temperance movement, portraying them as vigilant guardians of moral standards, committed to elevating the cause. It calls upon the community, particularly the men of Massachusetts, to actively participate in the temperance movement, suggesting that their collective efforts will lead to the establishment of just laws. The dedication serves as a rallying cry for all members of the temperance movement, including "Good Templars" and their families, uniting them under a shared mission. The hall is presented as a symbol of honor and social responsibility, reinforcing the idea that temperance is not just a personal virtue but a communal obligation. Overall, the work encapsulates the spirit of the temperance movement in the 19th century, advocating for moral reform and the establishment of a society grounded in truth and integrity. It reflects a commitment to social change through collective action and the empowerment of individuals, particularly women, in the pursuit of a more virtuous society.
By Mary Baker Eddy · First published 1891 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Social Reform · 282 words
First lines
Author of all divine Gifts, lofty, pure, and free, Temperance and truth in song sublime An offering bring to Thee!
A temple, whose high dome Rose from a water-cup; And from its altar to Thy throne May we press on and up!
And she -- last at the cross, First at the tomb, who waits -- Woman -- will watch to cleanse from dross The cause she elevates.
Sons of the old Bay State, Work for our glorious cause! And be your waiting hearts elate, Since temperance makes your laws.
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Dedication of a Temperance Hall is listed on Textopian as a poem by Mary Baker Eddy, dated 1891 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: Mary Baker Eddy
- Date: 1891 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Social Reform, Inspirational, Historical
- Length: 282 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Religious — The themes revolve around spirituality, dedication to God, and moral values, aligning with religious literature.
- Social Reform — The focus on temperance and societal improvement indicates a genre related to social reform movements.
- Inspirational — The text aims to inspire and uplift, promoting a cause and encouraging collective action.
Tags
Temperance Movement · Christianity · Spirituality · Self-Help · Personal Development · Moral Guidance · Social Reform · Women's Rights · 19th Century Literature · American Literature · Non-Fiction · Autobiography