# Mother’s Treasures explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper.

## What happens

A mother reflects on her deep love for her two children, Edna and Will, cherishing them as sacred gifts and praying that they grow to be faithful, pure, and a blessing to the world, with the hope of reuniting with them in heaven.

## Themes in this chapter

### Motherhood and Family

The poem centers on a mother's love, pride, and hopes for her children, emphasizing the sacred bond of family.

### Hope and Redemption

The mother prays for her children's faithfulness in dark times and looks forward to a heavenly reunion, reflecting hope and spiritual redemption.

## Character check-ins

### Unknown Narrator

The mother speaking in the poem, expressing her love and hopes for her children.

## Key lines

> I hold them as a sacred trust; I fain would hide them in my heart, Safe from tarnish of moth and rust.

I consider my children a holy responsibility and wish to protect them from any corruption or decay.

_The mother expresses her desire to shield her children from worldly harm._

> I ask that in the darkest hour They may faithful and true remain.

I pray that even in their hardest times, they will stay loyal and honest.

_The mother's wish for her children's steadfastness during trials._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_7_se/chapters/mother-s-treasures
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_7_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_7_se/chapters