Seein' Things by Eugene Field (1890)
The poem explores the idea that children have a unique and imaginative way of seeing the world, which is often lost as they grow older. It describes how children's perceptions are shaped by their innocence and lack of worldly experience, allowing them to see beauty and magic in everyday things. The poem also touches on the theme of nostalgia, highlighting the speaker's longing for the carefree and imaginative nature of childhood.
By Eugene Field · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Children's Literature, Humor · 529 words
First lines
I ain't afeard uv snakes, or toads, or bugs, or worms, or mice, An' things 'at girls are skeered uv I think are awful nice! I'm pretty brave, I guess; an' yet I hate to go to bed, For, when I'm tucked up warm an' snug an' when my prayers are said, Mother tells me "Happy dreams! " and takes away the light, An' leaves me lyin' all alone an' seein' things at night!
What this Textopian page supports
Seein' Things 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, Humor, Fantasy, Narrative
- Length: 529 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Seein' Things 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 Seein' Things?
- How does this poem by Eugene Field fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- With Trumpet And Drum by Eugene Field
- Some Time by Eugene Field
- Billy And His Drum by James Whitcomb Riley
- A Home Made Fairy Tale by James Whitcomb Riley
- An Impromptu Fairy Tale by James Whitcomb Riley
- The Three Tailors by Eugene Field
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Children's Literature — The themes and language are suitable for a young audience, focusing on childhood fears and experiences.
- Humor — The playful tone and light-hearted treatment of fears contribute to a humorous perspective on childhood.
- Fantasy — The presence of imaginary creatures and the exploration of a child's imagination align with fantasy elements.
Tags
Humor · Satire · Poetry · Whimsy · Fantasy · Imagination · Childhood · Nostalgia · American Literature · 19th Century · Verse · Storytelling