As my Uncle Used to Say
The poem is a nostalgic reflection on the passing of time and the loss of innocence. It explores the theme of childhood memories and the way they are shaped by our experiences and relationships with others. The speaker reminisces about his uncle's sayings, which have become ingrained in his memory and continue to influence his thoughts and feelings even as an adult.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1888 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational · 278 words
First lines
I've thought a power on men and things, As my uncle ust to say, -- And ef folks don't work as they pray, i jings!
W'y, they ain't no use to pray!
Ef you want somepin', and jes dead-set A-pleadin' fer it with both eyes wet, And _tears_ won't bring it, w'y, you try _sweat_, As my uncle ust to say.
They's some don't know their A, B, Cs, As my uncle ust to say, And yit don't waste no candle-grease, Ner whistle their lives away!
What this Textopian page supports
As my Uncle Used to Say is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1888 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: 1888 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational, Folklore, Humor
- Length: 278 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for As my Uncle Used to Say by James Whitcomb Riley
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering As my Uncle Used to Say?
- How does this poem by James Whitcomb Riley fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- A Session With Uncle Sidney by James Whitcomb Riley
- Writin Back To The Home Folks by James Whitcomb Riley
- When Maimie Married by James Whitcomb Riley
- The Way It Wuz by James Whitcomb Riley
- The Plaint Human by James Whitcomb Riley
- Paps Old Sayin by James Whitcomb Riley
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore philosophical ideas about work, prayer, and destiny.
- Inspirational — The content provides motivational insights and encourages practical action over mere prayer.
- Folklore — The repeated phrase 'As my uncle used to say' suggests a transmission of folk wisdom.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · Humorous · Nostalgic · Family · Wisdom · Sayings · Proverbs · Folk Wisdom · Regionalism · Midwestern · Indiana