Shepherds All and Maidens Fair
The story revolves around a romantic and idyllic setting where shepherds are calling out to maidens, inviting them to join in the celebration of love and beauty. The poem-like narrative is filled with imagery of flowers, gold, and music, emphasizing the joy and vitality of the season. A particular shepherd, seemingly lovelorn, addresses a maiden named Chloris, expressing his longing for her attention and affection. He laments that she does not seem to appreciate his efforts, symbolized by his piping, which is meant solely for her. The narrative explores the themes of love, beauty, and the fleeting nature of life's pleasures.
By Edith Nesbit · First published 1907 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Pastoral · 317 words
First lines
Pipe, shepherds, pipe, the summer's ripe; So wreathe your crooks with flowers; The world's in tune to Love and June, The days are rich in hours, In rosy hours, in golden hours -- Love's crown and fortune fair, So gather gold for Love to hold, And flowers for Love to wear!
Sing, maidens, sing! A dancing ring Of pleasures speed your way; Too harsh and dry is fierce July, Too maiden-meek was May; But Love and June their old sweet tune Are singing at your ear: So learn the song and troop along To meet your shepherds dear!
What this Textopian page supports
Shepherds All and Maidens Fair is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edith Nesbit, dated 1907 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Edith Nesbit
- Date: 1907 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Pastoral
- Length: 317 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Shepherds All and Maidens Fair by Edith Nesbit
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Shepherds All and Maidens Fair?
- How does this poem by Edith Nesbit fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- From The Tuscan by Edith Nesbit
- On The Downs by Edith Nesbit
- The Heart Of Joy by Edith Nesbit
- The Sums That Came Right by Edith Nesbit
- Out Of The Fulness Of The Heart The Mouth Speaketh by Edith Nesbit
- Special Pleading by Edith Nesbit
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, with a rhythmic and rhyming structure, typical of poetry.
- Romance — The themes of love, courtship, and desire are central to the narrative.
- Pastoral — The setting and imagery are rural and idyllic, characteristic of the pastoral genre.
Tags
Children's Fiction · Fantasy · Adventure · Classic Literature · British Literature · Early 20th Century · Rural Life · Countryside · Village Life · Social Class · Family Relationships · Coming of Age