A Valentine by Eugene Field (1885)
The poem explores the theme of love and its fleeting nature. It describes a romantic encounter between two people on Valentine's Day, but instead of being a joyful celebration, it's a melancholic reflection on the impermanence of love and relationships. The speaker acknowledges that their love will eventually fade away, leaving only memories behind.
By Eugene Field · First published 1885 · Genre: Poetry, Romantic, Children's Literature · 241 words
First lines
Go, Cupid, and my sweetheart tell I love her well. Yes, though she tramples on my heart And rends that bleeding thing apart; And though she rolls a scornful eye On doting me when I go by; And though she scouts at everything As tribute unto her I bring -- Apple, banana, caramel -- Haste, Cupid, to my love and tell, In spite of all, I love her well!
What this Textopian page supports
A Valentine is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1885 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Eugene Field
- Date: 1885 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romantic, Children's Literature, Lyric, Humor
- Length: 241 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Valentine by Eugene Field
- 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 A Valentine?
- How does this poem by Eugene Field fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Romantic — The central theme revolves around love and affection, typical of romantic literature.
- Children's Literature — The playful tone and simple language suggest it is suitable for a younger audience.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal feelings and emotions, aligning with the lyric genre.
Tags
Poetry · Romance · Love · Sentimental · Nostalgic · Whimsical · Humorous · Lighthearted · Playful · Witty · Satirical · Irony