The Old Wooden Cradle
The poem explores the theme of nostalgia and longing for a past time. The speaker describes an old wooden cradle that has been preserved for years, evoking memories of childhood and a bygone era. The cradle is personified as a symbol of comfort, security, and innocence, highlighting the passing of time and the loss of youthful simplicity.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1886 · Genre: Poetry, Nostalgia, Social Commentary · 293 words
First lines
Good-bye to the cradle, the dear wooden cradle The rude hand of Progress has thrust it aside. No more to its motion o'er sleep's fairy ocean, Our play-weary wayfarers peacefully glide.
No more by the rhythm of slow-moving rocker, Their sweet dreamy fancies are fostered and fed; No more to low singing the cradle goes swinging -- The child of this era is put into bed.
Good-bye to the cradle, the dear wooden cradle, It lent to the twilight a strange, subtle charm; When bees left the clover, when play-time was over, How safe seemed this shelter from danger or harm.
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The Old Wooden Cradle is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1886 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Date: 1886 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Nostalgia, Social Commentary, Sentimental
- Length: 293 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Similar titles
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- When Maimie Married by James Whitcomb Riley
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse with a clear rhythmic and rhyming structure.
- Nostalgia — The themes revolve around reminiscing about the past and the loss of traditional objects.
- Social Commentary — The poem comments on societal changes and the impact of progress on traditional practices.
- Sentimental — The tone is emotional and reflective, focusing on the sentimental value of the cradle.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Romanticism · Nostalgia · Childhood Memories · Family Heirloom · Antique Furniture · Rural Life · Simple Living · Nature Imagery · Sentimental Value · Emotional Reflection