The Grandsire by Eugene Field (1898)
The poem tells the story of a grandfather who sits under an elm tree, watching his grandchildren play and listening to their stories. He reflects on his own life, remembering his youth and the passing of time. The poem explores themes of nostalgia, aging, and the cyclical nature of life.
By Eugene Field · First published 1898 · Genre: Poetry, Lyrical, Romanticism · 263 words
First lines
I loved him so; his voice had grown Into my heart, and now to hear The pretty song he had sung so long Die on the lips to me so dear! _He_ a child with golden curls, And I with head as white as snow -- I knelt down there and made this pray'r: "God, let me be the first to go!"
How often I recall it now: My darling tossing on his bed, I sitting there in mute despair, Smoothing the curls that crowned his head.
They did not speak to me of death -- A feeling _here_ had told me so; What could I say or do but pray That I might be the first to go?
Yet, thinking of him standing there Out yonder as the years go by, Waiting for me to come, I see 'Twas better he should wait, not I.
What this Textopian page supports
The Grandsire is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1898 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: 1898 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Lyrical, Romanticism, Elegy, Sentimental
- Length: 263 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Some Time by Eugene Field
- Our Own by James Whitcomb Riley
- At Utter Loaf by James Whitcomb Riley
- Thirty Nine by Eugene Field
- Nothin To Say by James Whitcomb Riley
- The Harper by James Whitcomb Riley
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and meter typical of poetry.
- Lyrical — The emotional expression and personal reflection on love and loss align with lyrical poetry.
- Romanticism — Themes of deep emotional connection and the beauty of personal relationships reflect Romantic ideals.
- Elegy — The poem mourns the loss of a loved one, characteristic of elegiac poetry.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry · Humor · Satire · Whimsy · Nostalgia · Rural Life · Family · Genealogy · Heritage · History · Social Commentary