Lines on the Finding of a Young Man's Body in To
The poem recounts the discovery of a young man's body in Toronto Bay, emphasizing the mystery surrounding his identity. Initially, the body is found submerged, and it is only through the suit's maker's label that his identity is eventually uncovered. The narrative reflects on the sorrow felt by the community, as the young man's genteel appearance suggests a life of significance, yet his background remains unknown. A compassionate individual takes responsibility for the body, skillfully embalming it and restoring the young man's features to a peaceful state. This act of kindness is recognized and rewarded, highlighting themes of compassion and respect for the deceased. The father of the young man expresses gratitude towards the embalmer, acknowledging the restoration of his son's remains as a significant act that brings honor to the caretaker. The poem encapsulates themes of loss, identity, and the human connection in the face of tragedy.
By James McIntyre · First published 1880 · Genre: Poetry, Elegy, Narrative · 189 words
First lines
His identity was discovered by finding the maker's name on the suit he wore and by sending a strip of the cloth to the maker in Montreal.
A young man's body long it lay In bottom of Toronto Bay, But at last the waters bore, And raised him up near to the shore.
But no one knew his rank or station, No one knew his home or nation, But his form and dress were genteel, And sorrow many they did feel.
Kind man took charge of the remains, And was well rewarded for his pains, So skilful he did him embalm, Restored the features sweet and calm.
What this Textopian page supports
Lines on the Finding of a Young Man's Body in Toronto Bay is listed on Textopian as a poem by James McIntyre, dated 1880 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: James McIntyre
- Date: 1880 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Elegy, Narrative, Lyric, Historical
- Length: 189 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Similar titles
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- A Clock Stopped Not The Mantels by Emily Dickinson
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- Memorial Verses23 by Matthew Arnold
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Elegy — The poem mourns the death of a young man, reflecting on loss and remembrance.
- Narrative — The poem tells a story about the discovery and identification of a deceased individual.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal feelings and emotions related to death and mourning.
Tags
Poetry · Canadian Literature · 19th Century Poetry · Death and Mourning · Nature Imagery · Toronto Setting · Young Man's Body · Discovery · Grief · Loss · Mortality · Existential Crisis