Egyptian Folk-Song by Eugene Field
The poem explores the theme of nostalgia and longing for a past love that has been lost. The speaker describes a romantic encounter with an Egyptian woman who has since disappeared, leaving the speaker to pine for her return. The poem's tone is melancholic and introspective, with vivid imagery evoking the exoticism of ancient Egypt.
By Eugene Field · First published 1893 · Genre: Poetry, Fantasy, Folklore · 437 words
First lines
Grim is the face that looks into the night Over the stretch of sands; A sullen rock in the sea of white -- A ghostly shadow in ghostly light, Peering and moaning it stands. "_Oh, is it the king that rides this way -- Oh, is it the king that rides so free? I have looked for the king this many a day, But the years that mock me will not say Why tarrieth he! _"
What this Textopian page supports
Egyptian Folk-Song is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1893 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: 1893 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Fantasy, Folklore, Romanticism, Symbolism
- Length: 437 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Egyptian Folk-Song by Eugene Field
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Egyptian Folk-Song?
- 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
- Armenian Lullaby by Eugene Field
- Orkney Lullaby by Eugene Field
- St Johns Eve by Madison Cawein
- The Dreams by Eugene Field
- To Robin Goodfellow by Eugene Field
- A Sunset Fancy by Madison Cawein
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythmic and lyrical language typical of poetry.
- Fantasy — The themes of dreams, ghostly figures, and a mythical king suggest elements of fantasy.
- Folklore — The title and themes reflect cultural storytelling traditions, akin to folk songs.
- Romanticism — The emotional depth and focus on individual experience align with Romantic literary themes.
Tags
Poetry · Folklore · Egyptian Culture · Traditional Music · Lyrical · Rural Life · Simple Language · Storytelling · Oral Tradition · Musical Quality · Nostalgic · Romantic