Question

Discuss how Whittier uses the symbolism and imagery of war in his poem "To William Lloyd Garrison."

Answer 1

Whittier had used symbolism and imagery of war in his poem "To William Lloyd Garrison" when he described the rural nature of the New England including its cultural atmosphere, as well as its religion. In addition, Whittier was among the most prominent poets wherein among his main subject was the American Civil War.

Answer 2

In the poem “To William Lloyd Garrison” John Greenleaf Whittier uses a traditional rhyme scheme in which the last words of the first and third lines rhyme.

In addition to the rhythm and rhyme that is present in this poem, the poem is rich with imagery and symbolism to express complex ideas. For example, the sword is repeated in different parts of the poem, and it represents the fight that Garrison and Whittier are involved in. It represents how they got into believing in abolition and that it is called their “fight”.