A Wrangdillion
The poem is a nostalgic and melancholic reflection on the passing of time and the loss of innocence. It describes a childhood memory of a boy who has grown up and is now facing the harsh realities of adulthood, while still holding onto the carefree spirit of his youth. The speaker laments the loss of this innocence and the passing of time, which has brought about a sense of disillusionment and disconnection from the world.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1871 · Genre: Poetry, Fantasy, Surrealism · 256 words
First lines
Dexery-tethery! down in the dike, Under the ooze and the slime, Nestles the wraith of a reticent Gryke, Blubbering bubbles of rhyme: Though the reeds touch him and tickle his teeth -- Though the Graigroll and the Cheest Pluck at the leaves of his laureate-wreath, Nothing affects him the least.
He sinks to the dregs in the dead o' the night, And he shuffles the shadows about As he gathers the stars in a nest of delight And sets there and hatches them out: The Zhederrill peers from his watery mine In scorn with the Will-o'-the-wisp, As he twinkles his eyes in a whisper of shine That ends in a luminous lisp.
What this Textopian page supports
A Wrangdillion is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1871 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: 1871 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Fantasy, Surrealism, Children's Literature, Nonsense Verse
- Length: 256 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Similar titles
- The Elf And The Bee by Oliver Herford
- The Laughing Prince The Story Of The Boy Who Could Talk Nonsense by Parker Fillmore
- The Animal Ball by Edna St Vincent Millay
- The Jumblies by Edward Lear
- The Courtship Of The Yonghy Bonghy Bo by Edward Lear
- The Hunting Of The Snark by Lewis Carroll
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Fantasy — The presence of mythical creatures and whimsical elements suggests a fantasy genre.
- Surrealism — The imagery and abstract concepts create a dream-like, surreal atmosphere.
- Children's Literature — The playful language and imaginative content are often found in children's literature.
Tags
Fiction · Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Children's Book · Fantasy · Adventure · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Coming of Age · Self-Discovery