Long Meter by Eugene Field (1896)
The poem explores the theme of childhood innocence and nostalgia through the speaker's reminiscence of a carefree summer day spent playing with a friend in a field of tall grass. The poem's use of imagery, metaphor, and symbolism creates a vivid picture of a fleeting moment in time, emphasizing the importance of holding onto memories of youth.
By Eugene Field · First published 1896 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Satire · 150 words
First lines
All human joys are swift of wing For heaven doth so allot it That when you get an easy thing You find you haven't got it.
Man never yet has loved a maid, But they were sure to part, sir; Nor never lacked a paltry spade But that he drew a heart, sir!
Go, Chauncey! it is plain as day You much prefer a dinner To walking straight in wisdom's way -- Go to, thou babbling sinner.
The froward part that you have played To me this lesson teaches: To trust no man whose stock in trade Is after-dinner speeches.
What this Textopian page supports
Long Meter 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, Humor, Satire, Lyric, Philosophical
- Length: 150 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, making it primarily a poem.
- Humor — The tone and content reflect a humorous critique of human nature and social behaviors.
- Satire — The poem satirizes societal norms and human relationships, highlighting their transient nature.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal feelings and reflections, characteristic of lyric poetry.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Whimsical · Fantastical · Imaginative · Playful · Lighthearted · Witty