Sheep by James McIntyre (1868)
The work explores the multifaceted benefits and challenges associated with sheep farming, particularly focusing on the economic advantages and the labor dynamics within a farming household. It highlights the dual yield from sheep: the production of lambs and wool, which can be monetized or utilized for domestic purposes. The industriousness of the farmer's wife is emphasized, showcasing her role in transforming wool into usable products, whether through spinning, knitting, or weaving. Despite the potential for financial gain, the narrative also addresses the demanding nature of farm life, where the wife often undertakes significant responsibilities, including milking cows and churning butter, alongside her domestic duties. Her resilience and dedication are portrayed as commendable, as she navigates the hardships of rural life without complaint. The poem acknowledges her contributions to the family, particularly in raising children, and positions her as a central figure in maintaining the household's well-being. Overall, the work presents a balanced view of rural life, celebrating the rewards of sheep farming while also recognizing the labor and sacrifices made by women in this context. It underscores themes of industriousness, familial duty, and the interplay between economic necessity and personal resilience.
By James McIntyre · First published 1868 · Genre: Poetry, Pastoral, Social Commentary · 232 words
First lines
This advantage hath the sheep, / Two crops each yoar from them you reap;
You get big price for tender lamb, / And crop of wool from shearing dam.
Industrious wife can spin the yarn, / And knit the socks, or old ones darn;
Or weave it up in her own loom, / And thrift to wealth it soon will bloom.
What this Textopian page supports
Sheep is listed on Textopian as a poem by James McIntyre, dated 1868 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: James McIntyre
- Date: 1868 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Pastoral, Social Commentary, Agricultural Literature, Inspirational
- Length: 232 words
- Structure: 1 section, 11 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Sheep by James McIntyre
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Pastoral — The themes revolve around rural life, farming, and the relationship between humans and livestock.
- Social Commentary — The poem reflects on the roles and struggles of farmers and their families, highlighting social issues.
- Agricultural Literature — The content focuses on sheep farming, wool production, and the economic aspects of rural life.
Tags
Poetry · Satire · Dark Humor · Literary Fiction · Canadian Literature · 19th Century Literature · Agricultural Theme · Sheep as Metaphor · Rural Setting · Social Commentary · Irony · Absurdity