Flying Kites by Carolyn Wells (1938)
The poem captures the joy and excitement of flying kites on a windy day, particularly from the perspective of children. It emphasizes the delight in creating and using kites, portraying it as a simple yet profound pleasure. The playful tone invites readers to envision the carefree nature of childhood, where the act of flying a kite symbolizes freedom and imagination. However, there is a cautionary note directed at older individuals, humorously referred to as "Aged Duffers," suggesting that they may struggle with the complexities of managing a kite. This contrast highlights the innocence and ease of youth against the challenges of age. The poem ultimately celebrates the spirit of play and the joy found in simple activities, while also acknowledging the limitations that come with growing older. The imagery of kites soaring in the wind serves as a metaphor for the aspirations and dreams of youth, making it a nostalgic reflection on the passage of time and the enduring nature of childhood joys.
By Carolyn Wells · First published 1938 · Genre: Children's Literature, Adventure, Drama · 80 words
First lines
A blustering windy day's just right For boys who want to fly a kite; And it affords the greatest joy To make and use the pretty toy.
But Aged Duffers, do not try A large-sized paper kite to fly; You could not manage tail or string, And ten to one you'd spoil the thing.
What this Textopian page supports
Flying Kites is listed on Textopian as a short story by Carolyn Wells, dated 1938 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: 1938 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Children's Literature, Adventure, Drama, Coming of Age
- Length: 80 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Flying Kites 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 Flying Kites?
- How does this short story by Carolyn Wells fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Children's Literature first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- A Childs Smile by Dinah Mulock
- Sunshine by David Cory
- Pattys Butterfly Days by Carolyn Wells
- The Snowball by David Cory
- Up In The Tree by George Macdonald
- Good Days by Charles Kingsley
Genres
- Children's Literature — Given the playful and simple concept of flying kites, the book is likely to be targeted towards a young audience, making it most relevant to the category of children's literature.
- Adventure — Flying kites can be considered an adventurous activity for children, thus making 'Adventure' a fitting genre.
- Drama — Assuming the story contains emotional arcs and conflicts around the activity of flying kites, the genre could also be associated with drama.
- Coming of Age — If the story follows characters growing and developing through the activity of flying kites, it could fall under the 'Coming of Age' genre.
Tags
adventure · friendship · childhood · imagination · freedom · nature · family · growth · exploration · dreams · playfulness · creativity