The Little Peach by Eugene Field
The poem tells the story of a little peach that grows on a tree and falls into a stream, where it's swept away by the current. The peach is compared to a child who has wandered away from its mother. The poem explores themes of loss, separation, and the passage of time.
By Eugene Field · First published 1891 · Genre: Children's Literature, Poetry, Fantasy · 227 words
First lines
A little peach in the orchard grew, -- A little peach of emerald hue; Warmed by the sun and wet by the dew, It grew.
One day, passing that orchard through, That little peach dawned on the view Of Johnny Jones and his sister Sue -- Them two.
Up at that peach a club they threw -- Down from the stem on which it grew Fell that peach of emerald hue. Mon Dieu!
John took a bite and Sue a chew, And then the trouble began to brew, -- Trouble the doctor couldn't subdue. Too true!
What this Textopian page supports
The Little Peach is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1891 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: 1891 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Children's Literature, Poetry, Fantasy, Tragedy, Fable
- Length: 227 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Little Peach by Eugene Field
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Little Peach?
- How does this poem by Eugene Field fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Children's Literature first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Children's Literature — The poem is aimed at a young audience, featuring simple language and themes suitable for children.
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and rhythm characteristic of poetry.
- Fantasy — The narrative includes whimsical elements, such as anthropomorphized fruit and a surreal outcome.
- Tragedy — The story concludes with the death of the characters, presenting a somber theme.
Tags
Children's literature · Poetry · Whimsical · Imagination · Fantasy · Adventure · Youthful · Innocence · Playfulness · Humor · Lighthearted · Nostalgic