Horace I, 23 by Eugene Field (1893)
The poem explores the theme of childhood innocence and its loss. It describes a boy's fascination with a swallow's nest and his subsequent destruction of it, symbolizing the end of his carefree childhood. The poem also touches on the idea that children often unknowingly destroy things they do not understand, highlighting their naivety and lack of awareness.
By Eugene Field · First published 1893 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Satire · 119 words
First lines
Chloe, you shun me like a hind That, seeking vainly for her mother, Hears danger in each breath of wind And wildly darts this way and t'other.
Whether the breezes sway the wood Or lizards scuttle through the brambles, She starts, and off, as though pursued, The foolish, frightened creature scrambles.
But, Chloe, you're no infant thing That should esteem a man an ogre -- Let go your mother's apron-string And pin your faith upon a toga!
What this Textopian page supports
Horace I, 23 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: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Satire, Narrative Poetry, Classical Literature
- Length: 119 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for Horace I, 23 by Eugene Field
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Horace I, 23?
- How does this poem by Eugene Field fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Lyric Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Horace I 33 by Eugene Field
- Horace I 27 by Eugene Field
- Horace I 34 by Eugene Field
- Horace I 31 by Eugene Field
- Horace Iv 1 by Eugene Field
- Horace Iii 13 by Eugene Field
Genres
- Lyric Poetry — The work is characterized by its emotional expression and personal reflection, typical of lyric poetry.
- Romanticism — Themes of love and nature, along with a focus on individual emotion, align with Romantic literary ideals.
- Satire — The poem employs humor and irony to critique social norms and behaviors, particularly in romantic contexts.
- Narrative Poetry — The poem tells a story through its verses, depicting a scenario involving characters and emotions.
Tags
Humor · Satire · Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Whimsical · Witty · Irony · Social Commentary · Cultural Critique · Playful · Lighthearted