The poem is a solemn meditation on the spiritual gravity of slander, portraying it as the greatest of sins: the deliberate tainting of a pure well (a metaphor for truth, reputation, or the soul) with toxic, untrue accusations. Like venom poured into clear water, false and malicious words spread corruption, defiling hearts and staining innocence.

Yet the poem does not end in despair. It turns to the light of Scripture—specifically the Beatitude from Matthew 5:11-12—declaring that those who endure persecution, reviling, and false evil spoken against them for righteousness’ sake are truly blessed. They are called to rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for their reward in heaven is great, just as the prophets before them faced similar trials.

The work moves from lament over the darkness of slander to triumphant hope in divine vindication, urging the reader to stand firm in purity and trust that God sees the truth. It is both a warning against the destructive power of lying tongues and a song of encouragement for the wrongly accused.

In shadows deep where falsehoods creep,
The greatest sin takes darkest form:
A pure well tainted, poisoned deep
By toxic slander, lies that swarm.

Untruths like venom spread and sting,
Defiling springs of truth and grace,
Corrupting hearts, on wicked wing,
And staining souls in foul disgrace.

Yet hear the words of ancient light,
From Sermon on the Mount so true:
Blessed are you when in the fight,
Men revile, persecute, and spew

All manner of evil falsely ‘gainst you—
For My sake, rejoice and be exceeding glad!
Great is your reward in heaven’s view,
As prophets faced the storms they had.

Stand firm, though slanders rage and roar,
The pure in heart shall see the Lord once more.