Hugo's "Child at Play"
The poem explores the theme of childhood innocence and the passing of time. It describes a child playing alone, lost in thought, with a sense of freedom and joy. The poem also touches on the idea that this carefree stage of life will eventually come to an end as the child grows up.
By Eugene Field · First published 1892 · Genre: Poetry, Children's Literature, Lyric · 122 words
First lines
A child was singing at his play -- I heard the song, and paused to hear; His mother moaning, groaning lay, And, lo! a specter stood anear!
The child shook sunlight from his hair, And caroled gaily all day long -- Aye, with that specter gloating there, The innocent made mirth and song!
How like to harvest fruit wert thou, O sorrow, in that dismal room -- God ladeth not the tender bough Save with the joy of bud and bloom!
What this Textopian page supports
Hugo's "Child at Play" is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1892 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: 1892 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Children's Literature, Lyric, Romanticism, Symbolism
- Length: 122 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Hugo's "Child at Play" by Eugene Field
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Long Ago by Eugene Field
- Some Time by Eugene Field
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- Little Boy Blue by Eugene Field
- Kissing Time by Eugene Field
- The Naughty Doll by Eugene Field
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Children's Literature — The central theme revolves around a child's play and innocence, appealing to a younger audience.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and reflections, characteristic of lyrical poetry.
- Romanticism — The themes of nature, innocence, and emotional depth align with Romantic literary ideals.
Tags
Childhood · Playfulness · Innocence · Youth · Nostalgia · Poetry · Whimsy · Imagination · Fantasy · Humor · Lighthearted · Carefree