Tile Drains by James McIntyre (1892)
The work explores the significance of drainage systems in agriculture, emphasizing the transformation of land through the installation of tile drains. It begins by lamenting the barren state of rich land where water stagnates, highlighting the futility of crop cultivation without proper drainage. The narrative shifts to a more optimistic tone, illustrating how tile drains rejuvenate the earth, allowing it to flourish and produce bountiful crops. The poem describes the process of drainage as a means to ventilate the soil, enhancing its vitality and warmth. It contrasts the previous state of the land—sour, cold, and unproductive—with the revitalized condition brought about by effective drainage. The imagery of sparkling rills and the heart of the earth beating with hope symbolizes the life-giving properties of well-drained soil. Technical aspects of laying tile drains are addressed, emphasizing the importance of proper alignment and slope to ensure effective water management. The work acknowledges the environmental changes that have led to increased flooding and broader rivers, attributing these issues to deforestation and land use practices. However, it ultimately advocates for the benefits of tile drainage in mitigating these challenges and promoting agricultural success. The poem serves as both a practical guide and a celebration of the transformative power of drainage, underscoring its essential role in sustainable farming and land management.
By James McIntyre · First published 1892 · Genre: Poetry, Agricultural Literature, Nature Writing · 223 words
First lines
'Tis sad to see the richest land, Barren where water it doth stand;
You seek for crop but all in vain, For land requires the under drain.
But you cause mother earth to smile, When ventilated by the tile;
Before, she felt sour and old, Drains warm her heart and expel cold.
What this Textopian page supports
Tile Drains is listed on Textopian as a poem by James McIntyre, dated 1892 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: 1892 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Agricultural Literature, Nature Writing, Environmental Literature, Didactic Literature
- Length: 223 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 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.
- Agricultural Literature — The themes focus on land management, drainage, and agricultural productivity.
- Nature Writing — The poem reflects on the relationship between land, water, and nature.
- Environmental Literature — It addresses environmental concerns related to land use and water management.
Tags
Poetry · Canadian Literature · 19th Century Literature · Humorous Poetry · Satirical Poetry · Literary Satire · Social Commentary · Agricultural Life · Rural Life · Farmers' Experience · Water Management · Drainage Systems