# Signing the Pledge explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper.

## What happens

A man reflects on the devastation alcohol has caused to his family—his wife, mother, and son—and resolves to sign a pledge of sobriety, finding hope in redemption and divine grace.

## Themes in this chapter

### Hope and Redemption

The narrator finds hope in signing the pledge and redeeming his life for his family.

### Resilience and Sacrifice

He sacrifices his former habits and battles his addiction to restore his home.

## Character check-ins

### Unknown Narrator

The speaker who recounts his past sins and commits to sobriety.

### Father

The narrator himself, who vows to change for his family.

## Key lines

> Do you see this cup⁠—this tempting cup⁠— Its sparkle and its glow? I tell you this cup has brought to me A world of shame and woe.

The narrator points to a cup of alcohol, warning that its allure has caused him immense shame and suffering.

_Opening stanza establishing the destructive power of drink._

> Do you see this pledge I've signed to-night? My mother, wife, and boy Shall read my purpose on that pledge And smile through tears of joy.

He shows the signed pledge, believing his family will rejoice upon seeing his commitment to change.

_Climactic moment of resolution and hope._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_7_se/chapters/signing-the-pledge
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_7_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_7_se/chapters