Telling the Bees by Eugene Field
The poem is a nostalgic and sentimental portrayal of childhood innocence and simplicity. It describes a scene where the narrator tells the bees about the death of a loved one, suggesting that even in nature, there is an understanding of mortality. The tone is melancholic and contemplative, evoking a sense of loss and longing.
By Eugene Field · First published 1899 · Genre: Poetry, Elegy, Nature Writing · 325 words
First lines
OUT of the house where the slumberer lay Grandfather came one summer day, And under the pleasant orchard trees He spake this wise to the murmuring bees: "The clover-bloom that kissed her feet And the posie-bed where she used to play Have honey store, but none so sweet As ere our little one went away.
O bees, sing soft, and, bees, sing low; For she is gone who loved you so."
What this Textopian page supports
Telling the Bees is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1899 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: 1899 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Elegy, Nature Writing, Children's Literature, Lyric
- Length: 325 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Elegy — The poem reflects themes of loss and mourning, commemorating the deceased with a tone of remembrance.
- Nature Writing — The poem vividly describes the natural setting and the relationship between humans and bees, emphasizing the beauty of the orchard.
- Children's Literature — The simple language and themes of innocence and nature make it suitable for a younger audience.
Tags
Childhood · Memories · Rural Life · Family · Coming-of-Age · Nature · Imagination · Whimsy · Poetic · Nostalgic · Autobiographical · Innocence