# President Lincoln’s Proclamation of Freedom explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper.

## What happens

The chapter celebrates President Lincoln's Proclamation of Freedom as a transformative event that will bring light, hope, and liberation to oppressed people, promising a new dawn of freedom and justice.

## Themes in this chapter

### Freedom and Liberation

The entire chapter focuses on the proclamation as a herald of freedom, liberation from oppression, and the dawn of a new era.

### Hope and Redemption

The poem conveys hope for a better future, redemption from sorrow and oppression, and the promise of coming light.

## Character check-ins

### Mister Lincoln

President Lincoln is the central figure whose Proclamation of Freedom is celebrated.

### The People

The oppressed millions waiting for freedom are referenced as the beneficiaries of the proclamation.

## Key lines

> It shall flash through coming ages; It shall light the distant years; And eyes now dim with sorrow Shall be clearer through their tears.

The proclamation will be remembered forever, bringing hope and clarity to those who have wept in sorrow.

_Emphasizes the enduring impact of the proclamation on future generations._

> By the light that gilds their prison, They shall seize its mould’ring key, And the bolts and bars shall vibrate With the triumphs of the free.

The light of freedom will enable the imprisoned to unlock their own chains and celebrate their liberation.

_Depicts the active role of the oppressed in achieving their own freedom._

> Soon the mists and murky shadows Shall be fringed with crimson light, And the glorious dawn of freedom Break refulgent on the sight.

The darkness of oppression will soon give way to the bright and glorious dawn of freedom.

_Concludes with a powerful image of the inevitable triumph of freedom over oppression._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_7_se/chapters/president-lincoln-s-proclamation-of-freedom
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_7_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_7_se/chapters