The tone shared by "A Psalm of Life" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and "Auspex" by John Greenleaf Whittier is reflective and contemplative. Both poems encourage readers to consider the deeper meaning of life, emphasizing themes of purpose, the passage of time, and the importance of living with intention. They inspire a sense of hope and determination, urging individuals to embrace life fully despite its challenges. Overall, the tone is one of earnest introspection and a call to action.
The rhyme scheme in "A Psalm of Life" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is ABABCC. The rhyme scheme in "Auspex" by Henry Gifford is AABBCCDD.
"Auspex" has six-line stanzas while "A Psalm of Life" has four-line stanzas.
In "A Psalm of Life," Henry Wadsworth Longfellow emphasizes the idea of time as an opportunity for action and personal growth, encouraging readers to live life to its fullest and leave a meaningful legacy. Conversely, "Auspex" by James Russell Lowell presents time as a more contemplative and reflective force, where the speaker grapples with the inevitability of mortality and the passage of moments. While Longfellow focuses on the proactive pursuit of life, Lowell highlights the introspective nature of time and its impact on human experience.
Philosopher
One example of hyperbole in the Psalm of Life could be when the poet claims that "Life is real! Life is earnest!" This statement is an exaggerated way of emphasizing the seriousness and importance of life.
death/afterlife
The first stanza of "A Psalm of Life" establishes an uplifting and determined tone, emphasizing the importance of living life with purpose and vigor. It rejects notions of despair and passivity, encouraging readers to take action and make a meaningful impact. This tone sets the stage for the rest of the poem, which continues to inspire resilience and a proactive approach to life. Overall, it conveys a message of hope and motivation.
Culture is the term that describes music, language, clothing, and other aspects of human life that are shared by a group of people. It encompasses the values, beliefs, customs, and practices that define a society or community.
The words are from a hymn that is based on Psalm 23.
You may be interested in reading the book, A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23 by Phillip Keller (a shepherd himself). In the book, Keller describes each verse of Psalm 23 by comparing it to the life of sheep and a shepherd.
The meter of "A Psalm of Life" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is predominantly trochaic tetrameter. This means each line has four metrical feet consisting of a stressed syllable followed by an unstressed syllable (trochee). The poem's rhythm is consistent and creates a flowing and uplifting tone.
The rhyme scheme of "A Psalm of Life" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is predominantly ABAB. This means that every four lines follow a pattern where the first and third lines rhyme with each other, and the second and fourth lines rhyme with each other.