Balow, My Bonnie by Eugene Field
The poem tells the story of a young girl who dies prematurely. The speaker describes her beauty and charm, and how she was loved by all who knew her. He expresses his grief at her passing, and how he wishes she were still alive. The poem explores themes of mortality, loss, and nostalgia.
By Eugene Field · First published 1882 · Genre: Poetry, Children's Literature, Fantasy · 236 words
First lines
Hush, bonnie, dinna greit; Moder will rocke her sweete, -- Balow, my boy! When that his toile ben done, Daddie will come anone, -- Hush thee, my lyttel one; Balow, my boy!
Gin thou dost sleepe, perchaunce Fayries will come to daunce, -- Balow, my boy! Oft hath thy moder seene Moonlight and mirkland queene Daunce on thy slumbering een, -- Balow, my boy!
Then droned a bomblebee Saftly this songe to thee: "Balow, my boy!"
And a wee heather bell, Pluckt from a fayry dell, Chimed thee this rune hersell: "Balow, my boy!"
What this Textopian page supports
Balow, My Bonnie is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1882 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: 1882 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Children's Literature, Fantasy, Folklore, Romanticism
- Length: 236 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Balow, My Bonnie by Eugene Field
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs rhythmic and lyrical language typical of poetry.
- Children's Literature — The themes of lullabies and comforting imagery are aimed at a young audience.
- Fantasy — The presence of fairies and magical elements suggests a fantastical setting.
- Folklore — The content reflects traditional themes and motifs found in folklore, such as lullabies and mythical creatures.
Tags
Poetry · Children's Literature · Nostalgia · Romanticism · Sentimental · Melancholic · Whimsical · Imaginative · Fantastical · Dreamlike · Idyllic · Rural Life