Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

The Red Planet Mars

The Red Planet Mars - meaning Summary

Resolute Calm Amid Suffering

Longfellow addresses a reader with a calm, exhortatory voice, presenting an inner "star" of unconquered will that rises in the speaker's breast. The poem urges resoluteness and composure as hopes fade, framing suffering as a path to strength and moral sublimity. Its tone is consolatory and didactic, encouraging acceptance of hardship and confidence that enduring trials cultivates dignity and fortitude.

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The star of the unconquered will, He rises in my breast, Serene, and resolute, and still, And calm, and self-possessed. And thou, too, whosoe'er thou art, That readest this brief psalm, As one by one thy hopes depart, Be resolute and calm. Oh, fear not in a world like this, And thou shalt know erelong,-- Know how sublime a thing it is To suffer and be strong.

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