A Psalm of Life

A Psalm of Life has served as one of the most inspirational poems in literature since it was written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Longfellow, a well loved American poet, is well known for A Psalm of Life and the lessons on life which it illustrates. The primary message of the poem, although haunting, is that life is beautiful. The lyrical lines and inspiring message of the poem has been handed down through the years, bringing hope to new generations today.

In the poem, Longfellow advised that we are all here on Earth to live for today rather than waiting for death to take us. The message in A Psalm for Life clearly illustrates that even in adversity we are to persevere and never give up. According to Longfellow, time is too swift to wait for death.

Longfellow assuredly had personal knowledge on the subject; suffering through the deaths of two wives. Following the death of his first wife his second wife also died tragically many years later.

Although Longfellow’s poetry has at times been criticized for being too sentimental and optimistic, it is this same optimism and sentimentality that has made Longfellow one of the most well love poets of his time. Through his works, including A Psalm of Life, Longfellow became known as a fireside poet. A Psalm of Life, as well as other works of Longfellow, was read by families as they gathered around the family fireplace in the evenings.

Just as families of today commonly gather around the television to watch a favorite program, families during Longfellow’s time spend evenings reading their favorite poems by Longfellow.

At APsalmForLife.info we are able to provide you with resources that will assist you in better appreciating the poetry of Longfellow’s time as well as other spiritual and inspiring words to bring new meaning to your life.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow