by Whitman · Cluster: Mortality · Grave · Memento Mori
Abstract
Reconciliation poem laying wreaths on the graves of all dead soldiers, North and South, for peace and brotherhood.
Connections
Motifs: Grave, Rose Themes & Concepts: War and its Cost, Grief and Loss, Mercy, Nationalism and Patriotism Forms & Genres: Elegy Historical References: American Civil War
Testo integrale / Full text
Cluster: SANDS AT SEVENTY
While not the past forgetting,
To-day, at least, contention sunk entire—peace, brotherhood uprisen;
For sign reciprocal our Northern, Southern hands,
Lay on the graves of all dead soldiers, North or South,
(Nor for the past alone—for meanings to the future,)
Wreaths of roses and branches of palm.