Phillis Wheatley, the first African American woman to publish a book of poetry, left a literary legacy that still resonates today. Born in West Africa and sold into slavery as a child, Wheatley defied the odds and used her pen to rise to prominence in 18th-century America. Though she is often remembered for a handful of her most famous poems, there are many lesser-known works that showcase her brilliance, depth, and resilience.
This article explores 28 Phillis Wheatley poems that deserve more recognition. We will examine their historical context, major themes, and literary significance. These selections reflect her intelligence, mastery of classical allusions, and ability to intertwine her personal experience with broader philosophical and religious ideas.
A Glimpse into Wheatley’s Life and Legacy
Before diving into the poems, it’s essential to understand the woman behind them. Phillis Wheatley was born around 1753 in what is now Senegal or Gambia. She was kidnapped and brought to Boston in 1761, where she was purchased by the Wheatley family. Recognizing her intelligence, they educated her in reading, writing, and classical literature.
Her 1773 book, Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral, was the first published by an African American. The collection earned her fame in both the American colonies and England. Despite gaining literary acclaim, Wheatley faced many personal struggles, including poverty and discrimination.
The Enduring Power of Her Poetry
Wheatley’s work is rich in themes of freedom, religion, identity, and morality. Her poems often reflect the influence of Christianity, classical literature, and the Enlightenment. Through elegant verse, she engaged with issues of race, slavery, and the human condition.
Below are 28 Phillis Wheatley poems that highlight her genius and often go unnoticed in mainstream anthologies.
1. “To Maecenas”
This is one of her most eloquent odes to literary patronage and reflects her admiration for classical poets like Virgil and Homer.
Themes:
- Artistic patronage
- Classical allusions
- Intellectual aspiration
2. “On Virtue”
A powerful meditation on the moral qualities necessary for a righteous life.
Themes:
- Moral integrity
- Spiritual aspiration
3. “To the University of Cambridge, in New England”
This poem highlights Wheatley’s awareness of her African origins and her embrace of Christian salvation.
Themes:
- Education
- Redemption
- Slavery and freedom
4. “To the King’s Most Excellent Majesty”
A celebratory piece about King George III repealing the Stamp Act. It captures a complex view of British rule.
Themes:
- Political loyalty
- Gratitude
- Colonial identity
5. “On Being Brought from Africa to America”
Perhaps her most quoted poem, this work encapsulates the paradoxes of her identity and experience.
Themes:
- Slavery
- Religion
- Racial equality
6. “To a Lady on Her Coming to North America with Her Son, for the Recovery of Her Health”
A compassionate work that shows Wheatley’s empathy and insight into suffering.
Themes:
- Healing
- Motherhood
- Nature and divinity
7. “On the Death of the Rev. Dr. Sewell”
A tribute to a respected clergyman, highlighting Wheatley’s religious devotion.
Themes:
- Mortality
- Faith
- Memorialization
8. “On the Death of the Rev. Mr. George Whitefield”
This widely read elegy brought her early acclaim.
Themes:
- Religious fervor
- Mourning
- Spiritual legacy
9. “To a Gentleman and Lady on the Death of the Lady’s Brother and Sister”
A poignant reflection on loss and comfort.
Themes:
- Grief
- Sympathy
- Christian hope
10. “On the Death of a Young Lady of Five Years of Age”
Wheatley’s ability to write about childhood innocence and divine providence is evident here.
Themes:
- Childhood
- Death
- Divine will
11. “On the Death of a Young Gentleman”
Similar in tone to her other elegies, this poem combines sorrow with spiritual consolation.
Themes:
- Transition
- Eternity
- Mourning
12. “To a Clergyman on the Death of His Lady”
Another of her consolation poems, reflecting religious faith.
Themes:
- Loss
- Comfort
- Eternal life
13. “On the Rev. Mr. George Whitefield”
A slightly different version than the more popular one, offering insight into Wheatley’s revisions and theological growth.
14. “To the Honourable T. H. Esq.; on the Death of His Daughter”
This work shows Wheatley’s deft use of classical and Christian references.
Themes:
- Parental grief
- Hope in resurrection
15. “To a Lady on the Death of Three Relations”
A moving elegy that balances emotional depth with poetic grace.
Themes:
- Triple loss
- Strength through faith
16. “To a Gentleman on His Voyage to Great-Britain”
An encouraging message of safe passage and divine guidance.
Themes:
- Travel
- Divine protection
17. “Thoughts on the Works of Providence”
A deep meditation on the natural world and God’s presence in it.
Themes:
- Nature
- Theology
- Observation
18. “On Imagination”
A beautiful exploration of the creative mind and poetic inspiration.
Themes:
- Creativity
- Transcendence
19. “An Hymn to the Morning”
A lyrical celebration of the dawn, full of vivid imagery.
Themes:
- Renewal
- Beauty of nature
20. “An Hymn to the Evening”
The companion to her morning hymn, offering peace and gratitude at day’s end.
Themes:
- Reflection
- Serenity
21. “To the Right Honourable William, Earl of Dartmouth”
A politically charged poem expressing hope for freedom.
Themes:
- Liberty
- Slavery
- Hope
22. “Isaiah LXIII. 1-8”
A religious poem grounded in scripture.
Themes:
- Redemption
- Biblical justice
23. “A Rebus by I.B.”
A clever, playful poem showcasing her intellectual agility.
Themes:
- Riddles
- Wordplay
24. “To S. M., a Young African Painter, on Seeing His Works”
One of her most striking poems about race, talent, and artistic kinship.
Themes:
- Black excellence
- Art and identity
25. “An Answer to the Rebus, by the Author of These Poems”
A creative response to the previously mentioned riddle poem.
Themes:
- Dialogue
- Wit
26. “To His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor, on the Death of His Lady”
This poem showcases her respectful tone and consolatory power.
Themes:
- Mourning
- Religious faith
27. “To a Lady Who Had Been Recently Married”
A joyful piece filled with well-wishes and optimism.
Themes:
- New beginnings
- Love and partnership
28. “To a Lady and Her Children on the Death of Her Son and Their Brother”
Wheatley’s empathy shines as she addresses the sorrow of family loss.
Themes:
- Family grief
- Spiritual strength
Conclusion
Though Phillis Wheatley wrote over 145 poems during her lifetime, many remain unpublished or rarely read. These 28 selections show the diversity of her subject matter, the strength of her convictions, and the elegance of her craft. Whether writing about personal loss, national identity, or spiritual devotion, Wheatley consistently elevated her verse with intelligence and grace.
Revisiting these lesser-known poems not only deepens our appreciation for Wheatley’s literary talent but also reaffirms her place in the pantheon of great American poets. Her words, though centuries old, continue to speak to readers in powerful and inspiring ways.
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