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Ah! on Thanksgiving day, when from East and from West…

“Ah! on Thanksgiving day, when from East and from West, From North and South, come the pilgrim and guest, When the gray-haired New Englander sees round his board The old broken links of affection restored, When the care-wearied man seeks his mother once more, And the worn matron smiles where the…” quote by John Greenleaf Whittier
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“Ah! on Thanksgiving day, when from East and from West, From North and South, come the pilgrim and guest, When the gray-haired New Englander sees round his board The old broken links of affection restored, When the care-wearied man seeks his mother once more, And the worn matron smiles where the girl smiled before. What moistens the lips and what brightens the eye? What calls back the past, like the rich pumpkin pie?”

John Greenleaf Whittier

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The poem celebrates reunion and gratitude during Thanksgiving, recalling past bonds and shared meals.

In simple terms: Thanksgiving reunites people and revives old connections.

Key Takeaway

Cherish gatherings and remember shared history.

Themes

gratitude family tradition

Mood

nostalgic warm celebrational

Type

poetry reflection

When to use this quote

  • holiday meals
  • family reunions
  • reflective gatherings

Key Concepts

reunion memory heritage

Questions to Reflect On

  • What traditions bring you comfort?
  • How do you honor past relationships?
A Different Perspective

The poem idealizes the past, overlooking present challenges.

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