Oh, Little Child by Eugene Field
The poem is a nostalgic and sentimental portrayal of childhood innocence and simplicity. It describes a child's carefree existence, surrounded by nature and imagination, and the speaker's longing to return to that state. The poem explores themes of nostalgia, simplicity, and the human desire to recapture lost innocence.
By Eugene Field · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Children's Literature, Lullaby · 188 words
First lines
Hush, little one, and fold your hands -- The sun hath set, the moon is high; The sea is singing to the sands, And wakeful posies are beguiled By many a fairy lullaby -- Hush, little child -- my little child!
Dream, little one, and in your dreams Float upward from this lowly place -- Float out on mellow, misty streams To lands where bideth Mary mild, And let her kiss thy little face, You little child -- my little child!
Sleep, little one, and take thy rest -- With angels bending over thee, Sleep sweetly on that Father's breast Whom our dear Christ hath reconciled -- But stay not there -- come back to me, Oh, little child -- _my_ little child!
What this Textopian page supports
Oh, Little Child is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1890 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: 1890 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Children's Literature, Lullaby, Religious Literature, Fantasy
- Length: 188 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Oh, Little Child 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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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythmic and lyrical language typical of poetry.
- Children's Literature — The themes and tone are directed towards a child audience, focusing on comfort and dreams.
- Lullaby — The content serves as a soothing lullaby, intended to calm and lull a child to sleep.
- Religious Literature — The references to Christ and angels indicate a spiritual or religious theme.
Tags
Nostalgic · Childhood · Innocence · Poetic · Whimsical · Imagination · Fantasy · Dreams · Youth · Playful · Carefree · Simple