An Impetuous Resolve
The poem explores the tension between reason and emotion, as a speaker grapples with the consequences of acting on impulse rather than careful consideration. The speaker's impetuous resolve leads to chaos and destruction, highlighting the dangers of unchecked passion and the importance of weighing one's actions carefully.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Children's Poetry, Humor, Slice of Life · 165 words
First lines
When little Dickie Swope's a man, He's go' to be a Sailor; An' little Hamey Tincher, he's A-go' to be a Tailor: Bud Mitchell, he's a-go' to be A stylish Carriage-Maker; An' when _I_ grow a grea'-big man, I'm go' to be a Baker!
An' Dick'll buy his sailor-suit O' Hame; and Hame'll take it An' buy as fine a double-rigg As ever Bud can make it: An' nen all three'll drive roun' fer me An' we'll drive off togevver, A-slingin' pie-crust 'long the road Ferever an' ferever!
What this Textopian page supports
An Impetuous Resolve 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: Children's Poetry, Humor, Slice of Life
- Length: 165 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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- Work identity for An Impetuous Resolve by James Whitcomb Riley
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Children's Poetry — The work features simple language, rhyming structure, and themes of childhood imagination and aspirations.
- Humor — The playful tone and whimsical scenarios contribute to a humorous depiction of childhood dreams.
- Slice of Life — The poem captures everyday childhood experiences and future aspirations in a straightforward manner.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Free Verse · Nature Imagery · Emotional Expression · Romanticism · Whimsy · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Regionalism