Forgiveness is a profound and transformative theme that has captivated poets throughout history. It encompasses the act of pardoning, releasing resentment, and embracing healing, both for the individual and the collective. Through the art of poetry, renowned poets have explored forgiveness from various perspectives, offering insights into its complexities and its power to mend the human spirit.
1. “Forgiveness” by John Greenleaf Whittier
John Greenleaf Whittier, a prominent 19th-century American poet and abolitionist, penned the poem “Forgiveness” to convey the liberating power of pardoning others. In this work, Whittier reflects on the weight of harboring grudges and the peace that comes with letting go of past wrongs. He writes:
“My heart was heavy, for its trust had been Abused, its kindness answered with foul wrong; So, turning gloomily from my fellow-men, One summer Sabbath day I strolled among The green mounds of the village burial-place…”
Through these lines, Whittier illustrates how the contemplation of mortality can prompt a reevaluation of the importance of forgiveness, suggesting that life is too short to hold onto resentment.
2. “In Memoriam A. H. H.” by Alfred, Lord Tennyson
Alfred, Lord Tennyson’s “In Memoriam A. H. H.” is a poignant exploration of grief, loss, and the quest for spiritual understanding. Throughout the poem, Tennyson grapples with the death of his close friend, Arthur Henry Hallam, and the feelings of guilt and sorrow that accompany such a loss. In one of the sections, he seeks forgiveness for his intense grief, expressing:
“Forgive my grief for one removed, Thy creature, whom I found so fair. I trust he lives in thee, and there I find him worthier to be loved.”
This passage reflects Tennyson’s journey toward reconciling his emotions and finding solace in the belief of his friend’s eternal life.
3. “Forgiveness” by George MacDonald
George MacDonald, a Scottish author and poet, offers a brief yet profound meditation on forgiveness in his poem “Forgiveness.” He presents a scenario where a child makes a mistake and is given a task to complete, only to return with a slate covered in errors. The child is then forgiven, and together, they work through the task, symbolizing the grace and patience inherent in forgiveness. MacDonald writes:
“God gives his child upon his slate a sum – To find eternity in hours and years; With both sides covered, back the child doth come, His dim eyes swollen with shed and unshed tears; God smiles, wipes clean the upper side and nether, And says, ‘Now, dear, we’ll do the sum together!'”
This imagery conveys the nurturing aspect of forgiveness, emphasizing the opportunity for growth and learning through compassionate guidance.
4. “The Lover Asks Forgiveness Because of His Many Moods” by W. B. Yeats
In “The Lover Asks Forgiveness Because of His Many Moods,” W. B. Yeats delves into the complexities of love and the need for forgiveness within intimate relationships. The speaker acknowledges his fluctuating emotions and the impact they have on his partner, seeking understanding and pardon. Yeats writes:
“If this importunate heart trouble your peace With words lighter than air, Or hopes that in mere hoping flicker and cease; Crumple the rose in your hair…”
Through these lines, Yeats captures the vulnerability and self-awareness required to seek forgiveness, highlighting the delicate balance between love and personal shortcomings.
5. “Forgiveness” by Lisa D. Wadford
Lisa D. Wadford’s poem “Forgiveness” is a heartfelt apology and a plea for reconciliation. The speaker expresses deep regret for causing pain and seeks forgiveness, acknowledging the harm done and the desire to make amends. Wadford writes:
“Forgive me, for I’ve hurt you How I’ve made you cry It was never my intent To extinguish your soul’s light.”
This poem emphasizes the sincerity and humility involved in seeking forgiveness, as well as the hope for healing and restoration in relationships.
6. “This Is Just to Say” by William Carlos Williams
William Carlos Williams’ “This Is Just to Say” is a playful yet poignant poem that serves as an apology for eating plums that were intended for someone else. The speaker admits to the act and the pleasure derived from it, acknowledging the wrong and seeking forgiveness. Williams writes:
“Forgive me, they were delicious So sweet And so cold.”
This brief poem captures the simplicity and complexity of seeking forgiveness, highlighting the human tendency to indulge and the subsequent need for pardon.
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