Ailsie, My Bairn by Eugene Field
The poem tells the story of a child's death and the grief that follows. The speaker describes the child's beauty and innocence, and how they were taken from this world too soon. The poem explores themes of loss, mourning, and the fleeting nature of life.
By Eugene Field · First published 1889 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyrical · 395 words
First lines
Lie in my arms, Ailsie, my bairn, -- Lie in my arms and dinna greit; Long time been past syn I kenned you last, But my harte been allwais the same, my swete.
Ailsie, I colde not say you ill, For out of the mist of your bitter tears, And the prayers that rise from your bonnie eyes Cometh a promise of oder yeres.
What this Textopian page supports
Ailsie, My Bairn is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1889 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: 1889 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyrical, Childhood, Sentimental
- Length: 395 words
- Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythmic and lyrical language typical of poetry.
- Romanticism — The themes of love, nostalgia, and emotional depth reflect the characteristics of Romantic literature.
- Lyrical — The personal and emotional expression throughout the text aligns with lyrical poetry.
- Childhood — The focus on a child and the themes of loss and love for a child are central to the narrative.
Tags
Poetry · Children's Literature · American Literature · 19th Century · Nostalgic · Sentimental · Whimsical · Imaginative · Playful · Humorous · Lyrical · Rhyming Verse