Always Right by Eugene Field (1896)
The poem explores the idea that children are inherently good and that they lose their innocence as they grow up and are influenced by society. The speaker argues that children should be allowed to remain innocent and carefree, rather than being forced to conform to societal norms. The poem also touches on the theme of nostalgia, with the speaker reminiscing about their own childhood and the joys of being young.
By Eugene Field · First published 1896 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Romance · 268 words
First lines
DON'T take on so, Hiram, But do what you're told to do; It's fair to suppose that yer mother knows A heap sight more than you.
I'll allow that sometimes _her_ way Don't seem the wisest, quite; But the _easiest_ way, When she's had her say, Is to reckon yer mother is right.
Courted her ten long winters, Saw her to singin'-school; When she went down one spell to town, I cried like a durned ol' fool; Got mad at the boys for callin' When I sparked her Sunday night: But she said she knew A thing or two, -- An' I reckoned yer mother wuz right.
I courted till I wuz aging, And she wuz past her prime, -- I'd have died, I guess, if she hadn't said yes When I popped f'r the hundredth time.
What this Textopian page supports
Always Right is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1896 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: 1896 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Humor, Romance, Narrative, Didactic
- Length: 268 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Humor — The tone and content reflect a humorous take on relationships and advice.
- Romance — The narrative centers around courtship and romantic relationships.
- Narrative — The poem tells a story through the speaker's reflections and experiences.
Tags
Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Wit · Irony · Sarcastic · Cynical · Critical Thinking · Essays · Short Stories · American Literature · Late 19th Century