A Cold Day by Carolyn Wells (1924)
The narrative captures the essence of winter through the joyful activities of children as they embrace the cold weather. The poem opens with a vivid depiction of icy streets, prompting children to abandon their warm beds in favor of outdoor fun. They engage in skating and sledding, reveling in the playful spirit of the season. The imagery of snowballs being thrown adds to the lively atmosphere, showcasing the innocence and exuberance of youth. However, the tone shifts as the speaker addresses the "Venerable Veterans," cautioning them against participating in these winter games. The warning suggests that the physical demands of such activities may not be suitable for the older generation, who might end up sore and injured. This juxtaposition highlights the contrast between youthful energy and the limitations that come with age. Overall, the work encapsulates the joy of winter play while also acknowledging the realities of physical capability, creating a balance between celebration and caution. The playful tone and rhythmic structure enhance the enjoyment of the winter season, making it relatable to both children and adults.
By Carolyn Wells · First published 1924 · Genre: Mystery, Detective fiction, Fiction · 111 words
First lines
In winter time when ice and sleet Make slidy places on the street, The children early leave their beds And rush out with their skates and sleds.
All merrily the little dears Throw snowballs in each other's ears; And thus with pretty playful ways Beguile the white and wintry days.
Oh, Venerable Veterans, I hate to disarrange your plans; But truly, if you try this game You will go home all stiff and lame.
What this Textopian page supports
A Cold Day is listed on Textopian as a short story by Carolyn Wells, dated 1924 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Carolyn Wells
- Date: 1924 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Mystery, Detective fiction, Fiction
- Length: 111 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Cold Day by Carolyn Wells
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering A Cold Day?
- How does this short story by Carolyn Wells fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Mystery first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Mystery — The title and author suggest a plot centric on mystery. Carolyn Wells is a well-known author of mystery novels and the title 'A Cold Day' suggests a bleak or ominous setting, which is commonly associated with the mystery genre.
- Detective fiction — Carolyn Wells wrote many detective novels, so 'A Cold Day' can likely be classified under this sub-genre of mystery. The title implies a possible event of significance, a common trope in detective stories.
- Fiction — This is a broader genre, encompassing all types of imaginative writing, which includes Carolyn Wells' mystery and detective novels.
Tags
mystery · detective · crime · suspense · thriller · fiction · murder · investigation · clues · plot twist · whodunit · suspenseful