To a Soubrette by Eugene Field
The story revolves around a young woman who becomes involved with a group of people living on the outskirts of society. She falls in love with one of them and eventually joins their community, leaving behind her old life. The narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the human desire for connection and acceptance.
By Eugene Field · First published 1889 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Nostalgic Literature · 520 words
First lines
'Tis years, soubrette, since last we met; And yet -- ah, yet, how swift and tender My thoughts go back in time's dull track To you, sweet pink of female gender! I shall not say -- though others may -- That time all human joy enhances; But the same old thrill comes to me still With memories of your songs and dances.
Soubrettish ways these latter days Invite my praise, but never get it; I still am true to yours and you -- My record's made, I'll not upset it! The pranks they play, the things they say -- I'd blush to put the like on paper, And I'll avow they don't know how To dance, so awkwardly they caper!
What this Textopian page supports
To a Soubrette is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1889 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: 1889 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Nostalgic Literature, Performance Poetry, Sentimental Poetry
- Length: 520 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for To a Soubrette 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 To a Soubrette?
- How does this poem by Eugene Field fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Lyric Poetry first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Lyric Poetry — The poem expresses personal emotions and reflections, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Romanticism — Themes of nostalgia, love, and beauty align with Romantic ideals.
- Nostalgic Literature — The work focuses on memories and past experiences, evoking a sense of longing.
- Performance Poetry — References to stage performance and the soubrette suggest a connection to theatrical elements.
Tags
Poetry · Romantic · Whimsical · Light Verse · Humorous · Playful · Witty · Satirical · Irony · Social Commentary · Victorian Era · 19th Century Literature