Ashes on the Slide by Eugene Field
The poem explores the theme of mortality and the transience of human life. It describes a scene where children are playing with ashes on a slide, unaware of the reality of death and decay that surrounds them. The speaker reflects on how the children's innocence will eventually be lost as they grow older and become aware of the darkness of the world.
By Eugene Field · First published 1896 · Genre: Poetry, Nostalgia, Humor · 551 words
First lines
WHEN Jim and Bill and I were boys a many years ago.
How gayly did we use to hail the coming of the snow! Our sleds, fresh painted red and with their runners round and bright, Seemed to respond right briskly to our clamor of delight As we dragged them up the slippery road that climbed the rugged hill Where perched the old frame meetin'-house, so solemn-like and still.
What this Textopian page supports
Ashes on the Slide 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, Nostalgia, Humor, Social Commentary, Coming of Age
- Length: 551 words
- Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Nostalgia — The themes reflect a longing for childhood and simpler times, evoking nostalgia.
- Humor — The poem uses humor to critique societal norms and the interference of authority in childhood play.
- Social Commentary — It addresses the impact of adult concerns on the innocence of youth, serving as a critique of societal values.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · 19th Century · Whimsical · Nostalgic · Rural Life · Midwest · Childhood Memories · Playful Language