A Dubious "Old Kriss" by James Whitcomb Riley
The poem is a nostalgic and humorous tribute to an old man's questionable past exploits. It portrays him as a charming rogue who has lived a life of adventure and mischief. The speaker reflects on the old man's stories, which are likely exaggerated or fabricated, but still entertaining. The tone is lighthearted and playful, with a touch of irony and skepticism.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Children's Literature, Drama · 715 words
First lines
Us-folks is purty _pore_ -- but Ma / She's waitin' -- two years more -- tel Pa / He serve his term out. Our Pa he -- / _He's in the Penitenchurrie_!
Now don't you never _tell_! -- 'cause _Sis_, / The _baby_, _she_ don't know he is. -- / 'Cause she wuz only four, you know, / He kissed her last an' hat to go!
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A Dubious "Old Kriss" is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1883 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: James Whitcomb Riley
- Date: 1883 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Children's Literature, Drama, Realism, Holiday
- Length: 715 words
- Structure: 1 section, 17 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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- Work identity for A Dubious "Old Kriss" by James Whitcomb Riley
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Children's Literature — The narrative is from a child's perspective, focusing on themes relevant to children, such as family and Christmas.
- Drama — The poem explores dramatic themes of poverty, family separation, and hope, creating emotional tension.
- Realism — The depiction of a struggling family and the father's imprisonment reflects realistic social issues.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · 19th Century · Indiana · Regionalism · Folklore · Mythology · Krampus-like figure · Winter