Lay of the Spring by James McIntyre

Name: Lay of the Spring
Author: James McIntyre

The poem celebrates the joys of rural life, focusing on the simple yet profound experiences of nature and domesticity. It begins with a declaration of preference for the humble hen over grander subjects, emphasizing her daily contributions through egg-laying. The hen is portrayed as a diligent and proud creature, content in her environment, and her routine is depicted with affection and humor. The narrative highlights the hen's interactions with her surroundings, including her confusion over a fake egg, which adds a layer of whimsy. The male bird is introduced as a proud figure, showcasing the dynamics of farm life and the hierarchy among the birds. As the poem progresses, it shifts to a broader celebration of spring, capturing the essence of the season with imagery of blooming nature, sunshine, and the end of winter's bleakness. The arrival of May is particularly noted for its beauty, as the landscape transforms with vibrant colors and new life. Overall, the work encapsulates themes of appreciation for the ordinary, the cyclical nature of life, and the rejuvenating power of spring, all conveyed through a light-hearted and pastoral lens.

By James McIntyre · First published 1975 · Genre: Poetry, Nature, Humor · 273 words

First lines

Let others sing their favourite lay, From early morn till close of day, More useful themes engage our pen, We sing the lay of our good hen.

For she doth lay each morn an egg, And it is full and large and big, Abroad she doth never travel, Happy she when scratching gravel.

And she loud cackles songs of praise Every morn when e'er she lays, Proud she is when she finds pickings For to feed her brood of chickens.

It greatly puzzled her one day When she found white nest egg of clay, She knew some one did trick play her, For she was no brick layer.

What this Textopian page supports

Lay of the Spring is listed on Textopian as a poem by James McIntyre, dated 1975 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: James McIntyre
Date: 1975 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Nature, Humor, Children's Literature, Animal Fiction
Length: 273 words
Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
Nature — The themes revolve around the natural world, particularly spring and its associated imagery.
Humor — The poem contains light-hearted and humorous elements, particularly in the portrayal of the hen and her antics.
Children's Literature — The simple language and playful themes make it suitable for a younger audience.