Twin Idols by Eugene Field (1891)
The poem explores the theme of childhood innocence and the passing of time. It describes two cherubs who sit on a tombstone, playing with flowers and making a wreath. The poem conveys a sense of nostalgia and melancholy, highlighting the fleeting nature of youth and beauty.
By Eugene Field · First published 1891 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Social Commentary · 381 words
First lines
There are two phrases, you must know, So potent (yet so small) That wheresoe'er a man may go He needs none else at all; No servile guide to lead the way Nor lackey at his heel, If he be learned enough to say "Comme bien" and "Wie viel."
The sleek, pomaded Parleyvoo Will air his sweetest airs And quote the highest rates when you "Comme bien" for his wares; And, though the German stolid be, His so-called heart of steel Becomes as soft as wax when he Detects the words "Wie viel."
What this Textopian page supports
Twin Idols 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: Poetry, Satire, Social Commentary, Humor, Philosophical
- Length: 381 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Satire — The poem critiques societal values and materialism, particularly the obsession with wealth and status.
- Social Commentary — It reflects on cultural attitudes towards language and commerce in European society.
- Humor — The use of wit and irony to convey serious themes adds a humorous layer to the text.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Religion · Idolatry · Christianity · Cultural Criticism · Irony · Wit