Garden and Cradle by Eugene Field
The poem explores the idea that a child's early years are crucial in shaping their future. It uses the metaphor of a garden to describe the nurturing and care required for a child's growth, and a cradle to symbolize the safety and security needed during this period. The speaker argues that if a child is not properly cared for during these early years, they will not develop into a strong and healthy individual.
By Eugene Field · First published 1896 · Genre: Poetry, Children's Literature, Fantasy · 182 words
First lines
When our babe he goeth walking in his garden, Around his tinkling feet the sunbeams play; The posies they are good to him, And bow them as they should to him, As fareth he upon his kingly way; And birdlings of the wood to him Make music, gentle music, all the day, When our babe he goeth walking in his garden.
When our babe he goeth swinging in his cradle, Then the night it looketh ever sweetly down; The little stars are kind to him, The moon she hath a mind to him And layeth on his head a golden crown; And singeth then the wind to him A song, the gentle song of Bethlem-town, When our babe he goeth swinging in his cradle.
What this Textopian page supports
Garden and Cradle 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, Children's Literature, Fantasy, Lyrical, Nature Writing
- Length: 182 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythmic and lyrical language typical of poetry.
- Children's Literature — The themes and imagery are centered around a child, making it suitable for a young audience.
- Fantasy — The poem incorporates whimsical elements, such as talking flowers and celestial bodies, creating a fantastical atmosphere.
- Lyrical — The emotional and expressive nature of the writing aligns with lyrical poetry, focusing on feelings and imagery.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Children's Poetry · Whimsical · Imagination · Fantasy · Nature · Gardening · Motherhood · Infancy · Youth