Mabel Martin, a Harvest Idyl; and other poems Part 4 From Volume I of The Works of John Greenleaf Whittier

"Mabel Martin, a Harvest Idyl; and other poems" by John Greenleaf Whittier is a collection of poems that paints a picture of life in the New England countryside during the mid-1800s. The poems explore themes of love, sorrow, legends, and the presence of the supernatural, all while telling stories of people's lives and histories. John Greenleaf Whittier was passionate about fairness and protecting nature and often included those ideas in his writing. "Mabel Martin," the title work, is about a girl named Mabel whose mother was thought to be a witch and executed. As a consequence of the mother's execution, Mabel faces hardship from those around her, and the poem unfolds in her beautiful yet haunting home by the river. Despite feeling alone, she finds love and support in Esek Harden, who accepts her for who she is. The other poems speak of future visions, the connection between people and the natural world, and the changes that time brings, blending historical events with deep emotions of sadness and optimism. The collection creates a vibrant record of life and traditions along the Merrimac River.