When to Go by Gelett Burgess (1904)
When to Go is a humorous poem written by Gelett Burgess that explores the concept of timing in various situations. The poem begins with the line "The time has come," and goes on to describe different scenarios where it may be appropriate or inappropriate to take action. For example, the poem suggests that one should not go when they are being chased by a bear, but rather wait until the bear has passed before continuing on their way. The poem ends with the line "The time has gone," suggesting that there is always a right and wrong time for everything.
By Gelett Burgess · First published 1904 · Genre: Children's Literature, Poetry, Humor · 106 words
First lines
When you go a-calling, Never stay too late; You will wear your welcome out If you hesitate!
Just before they're tired of you, Just before they yawn, Before they think you are a Goop, And wish that you were gone, While they're laughing with you, While they like you so, While they want to keep you, -- That's the time to go!
What this Textopian page supports
When to Go is listed on Textopian as a short story by Gelett Burgess, dated 1904 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Gelett Burgess
- Date: 1904 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Children's Literature, Poetry, Humor, Etiquette
- Length: 106 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for When to Go by Gelett Burgess
- 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 When to Go?
- How does this short story by Gelett Burgess fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Children's Literature first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- A Thought For Tomorrow by Robert Ernest Gilbert
- The Path by Francis Sherman
- El Cadalso by Antonio Machado
- Bravery by Gelett Burgess
- Inquisitiveness by Gelett Burgess
- A Thought From The Rhine by Charles Kingsley
Genres
- Children's Literature — The simple language, rhyming structure, and moral lesson are characteristic of children's literature.
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse with a clear rhyme scheme, typical of poetry.
- Humor — The playful tone and the use of the term 'Goop' suggest a humorous approach.
- Etiquette — The content provides advice on social behavior, aligning with etiquette literature.
Tags
decision-making · timing · life choices · self-help · personal growth · philosophy · motivation · adventure · risk assessment · change · opportunity · mindfulness