Little All-Aloney by Eugene Field
The poem tells the story of a little boy who dies after being sent to buy medicine for his sick mother. The narrative explores themes of poverty, sacrifice, and the struggles of working-class life.
By Eugene Field · First published 1883 · Genre: Children's Literature, Poetry, Family · 343 words
First lines
Little All-Aloney's feet Pitter-patter in the hall, And his mother runs to meet And to kiss her toddling sweet, Ere perchance he fall. He is, oh, so weak and small! Yet what danger shall he fear When his mother hovereth near, And he hears her cheering call: "All-Aloney"?
Little All-Aloney's face It is all aglow with glee, As around that romping-place At a terrifying pace Lungeth, plungeth he! And that hero seems to be All unconscious of our cheers -- Only one dear voice he hears Calling reassuringly: "All-Aloney!"
What this Textopian page supports
Little All-Aloney is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1883 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: 1883 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Children's Literature, Poetry, Family, Coming-of-Age, Sentimental
- Length: 343 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Little All-Aloney 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 Little All-Aloney?
- How does this poem by Eugene Field fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Children's Literature first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Children's Literature — The poem is centered around a child's experiences and emotions, making it suitable for a young audience.
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and rhyme typical of poetry.
- Family — Themes of maternal love and familial bonds are prominent throughout the poem.
- Coming-of-Age — The poem reflects on childhood innocence and the transition to facing life's challenges.
Tags
Children's literature · Poetry · Nostalgic · Whimsical · Imagination · Fantasy · Youthful innocence · Playfulness · Humor · Lighthearted · Optimistic · Innocence