A Lounger by James Whitcomb Riley
The poem is a nostalgic and melancholic reflection on the passing of time and the fleeting nature of youth. It describes a young person's carefree days spent lounging in the sun, lost in thought, and indulging in daydreams. The speaker laments the loss of this idyllic state as adulthood and responsibility encroach upon their life.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1887 · Genre: Poetry, Realism, Character Study · 155 words
First lines
He leant against a lamp-post, lost In some mysterious reverie: His head was bowed; his arms were crossed; He yawned, and glanced evasively: Uncrossed his arms, and slowly put Them back again, and scratched his side -- Shifted his weight from foot to foot, And gazed out no-ward, idle-eyed.
Grotesque of form and face and dress, And picturesque in every way -- A figure that from day to day Drooped with a limper laziness; A figure such as artists lean, In pictures where distress is seen, Against low hovels where we guess No happiness has ever been.
What this Textopian page supports
A Lounger is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1887 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: 1887 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Realism, Character Study, Social Commentary
- Length: 155 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and imagery.
- Realism — The depiction of an ordinary person in a mundane setting reflects realistic themes.
- Character Study — The text focuses on the detailed description of a single character's appearance and demeanor.
- Social Commentary — The portrayal of the character hints at broader societal issues such as poverty and idleness.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Middle Class Life · Marriage · Relationships · Domesticity · Irony · Wit