Gettin' On by Eugene Field (1896)
The poem explores the theme of nostalgia and longing for a past time. It describes a person's reminiscence about their childhood, specifically a joyful experience of riding a horse in a circus. The speaker yearns to relive that moment, emphasizing the freedom and thrill they felt during that ride.
By Eugene Field · First published 1896 · Genre: Poetry, Reflective Literature, Humor · 490 words
First lines
WHEN I wuz somewhat younger, I wuz reckoned purty gay; I had my fling at everything In a rollickin', coltish way.
But times have strangely altered Since sixty years ago -- This age of steam an' things don't seem Like the age I used to know.
What this Textopian page supports
Gettin' On 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, Reflective Literature, Humor, Sentimental Literature, Narrative Poetry
- Length: 490 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and rhyme, characteristic of poetry.
- Reflective Literature — The themes revolve around nostalgia, aging, and reflection on past experiences.
- Humor — The tone includes light-heartedness and wit, particularly in the portrayal of aging and modernity.
- Sentimental Literature — The work evokes emotions related to memory, loss, and the passage of time.
Tags
Humor · Satire · Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Wit · Irony · Social Commentary · Whimsical · Playful · Lighthearted · Nostalgic