John Greenleaf Whittier was an American poet known for his anti-slavery writings and support for abolition of slavery in the United States. Whittier’s notable works include Legends of New England, Moll Pitcher, The Song of the Vermonters and Poems Written during the Progress of the Abolition Question. Since childhood, Whittier was a devoted follower of Quakerism and their ideologies, which focused on humanitarianism, compassion, and social responsibility. He used poetry as a medium to convey his political beliefs. Whittier is also known for his incredible support for female writers like Alice Cary, Sarah Orne Jewett, Lucy Larcom, and Celia Thaxter. Many buildings and landmarks at Whittier’s hometown in Haverhill have been named after him in his honor. A city in California has been named after the poet as well apart from various colleges, communities and schools. We have collected his quotes, thoughts and sayings from his writings, poems, and observations. Here are some of the most insightful quotes from this legend in American literature.
A little smile, a word of cheer,
A bit of love from someone near,
A little gift from one held dear,
Best wishes for the coming year.
These make a merry christmas!
Nothing before, nothing behind;
The steps of faith
Fall on the seeming void, and find
The Rock beneath.
John Greenleaf Whittier
At what point does a man turn into a monster? I don’t believe that it’s when he does horrible things, but when he accepts that he’s able to do them, and that he does them well.
The best of a book is not the thought which it contains, but the thought which it suggests; just as the charm of music dwells not in the tones but in the echoes of our hearts.
