What was Phillis Wheatley’s purpose for writing to his excellency General Washington?

What was Phillis Wheatley’s Purpose for Writing to His Excellency General Washington?

Phillis Wheatley, a former slave turned poet, wrote a powerful poem titled "To His Excellency General Washington" in 1775. The poem was a tribute to General George Washington, the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. In this article, we will delve into the purpose behind Wheatley’s writing and explore the significance of her poem.

Background Information

Phillis Wheatley was born in West Africa around 1753 and was sold into slavery at the age of seven. She was brought to America and sold to a Boston family, where she learned to read and write. Wheatley’s talent for poetry was recognized by her owners, who encouraged her to write. Her poems were widely circulated and admired, and she became a celebrated poet in her own right.

The Purpose of the Poem

Wheatley’s poem "To His Excellency General Washington" was written in 1775, during the early stages of the American Revolutionary War. The poem was a tribute to General Washington, praising his leadership and bravery in the face of adversity. Wheatley’s purpose for writing the poem was twofold:

• To Encourage Washington: Wheatley wanted to encourage Washington to continue fighting for American independence. She believed that his leadership was crucial to the success of the war effort and that he was the only one who could bring the colonies together to fight against British rule.
• To Challenge Slavery: Wheatley also used the poem to challenge the institution of slavery. She wrote about the injustices of slavery and the importance of freedom, hoping to raise awareness about the issue and encourage abolition.

The Poem’s Significance

Wheatley’s poem is significant for several reasons:

• First Poem by an African American Woman: "To His Excellency General Washington" was the first poem written by an African American woman to be published in America. It marked a significant milestone in the literary history of the United States.
• Celebration of African American Culture: The poem celebrated African American culture and identity, highlighting the importance of education, freedom, and self-respect.
• Influence on the War Effort: The poem’s message of encouragement and hope may have influenced the war effort, inspiring soldiers and civilians alike to continue fighting for independence.

Key Quotes and Themes

Some key quotes and themes from the poem include:

• "Hail, happy day! when eager freedom’s sons": This line celebrates the idea of freedom and the importance of fighting for it.
• "Thy once more by freedom’s hand shall take": This line highlights the idea that freedom is a fundamental human right and that it is worth fighting for.
• "The goddess of freedom holds thee dear": This line emphasizes the idea that freedom is a divine force that is worthy of respect and admiration.

Conclusion

Phillis Wheatley’s poem "To His Excellency General Washington" was a powerful tribute to the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. The poem’s purpose was to encourage Washington to continue fighting for American independence and to challenge the institution of slavery. The poem’s significance lies in its celebration of African American culture and identity, its influence on the war effort, and its legacy as a landmark work of American literature.