Testament by Sara Teasdale (1928)
The poem explores themes of despair, mortality, and the human condition. The speaker initially expresses a desire to abandon life, feeling that their vibrant essence has diminished to mere existence. They contemplate surrendering to death, reflecting a deep sense of hopelessness and isolation. However, upon hearing the collective sorrow of humanity, the speaker experiences a shift in perspective. They recognize their connection to others and the shared suffering of the human experience. This realization leads to a decision to endure life's challenges rather than reject them, embracing solidarity with their fellow beings. The work ultimately conveys a message of resilience and the importance of empathy in the face of despair.
By Sara Teasdale · First published 1928 · Genre: Poetry, Lyrical, Existential · 144 words
First lines
I SAID, "I will take my life And throw it away; I who was fire and song Will turn to clay."
"I will lie no more in the night With shaken breath, I will toss my heart in the air To be caught by Death."
But out of the night I heard, Like the inland sound of the sea, The hushed and terrible sob Of all humanity.
Then I said, "Oh who am I To scorn God to his face? I will bow my head and stay And suffer with my race. "
What this Textopian page supports
Testament is listed on Textopian as a poem by Sara Teasdale, dated 1928 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Sara Teasdale
- Date: 1928 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Lyrical, Existential, Philosophical, Spiritual
- Length: 144 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Testament by Sara Teasdale
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Testament?
- How does this poem by Sara Teasdale fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on emotional expression and thematic depth.
- Lyrical — The poem conveys personal feelings and reflections, characteristic of lyrical poetry.
- Existential — Themes of life, death, and the human condition are explored, reflecting existential concerns.
- Philosophical — The text engages with profound questions about existence and suffering, indicative of philosophical literature.
Tags
existentialism · mortality · suffering · humanity · self-reflection · spirituality · despair · redemption · identity · nature · life · death