At Broad Ripple. (Sweet-Knot and Galamus)
The poem describes a romantic encounter between two lovers at Broad Ripple, a location on the White River in Indiana. The scene is set at dusk, with the sun setting over the water. The speaker and his lover are alone, surrounded by nature's beauty. They share a tender moment, with the speaker expressing his love for her.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Pastoral, Nature · 341 words
First lines
Ah, Luxury! Beyond the heat And dust of town, with dangling feet, Astride the rock below the dam, In the cool shadows where the calm Rests on the stream again, and all Is silent save the waterfall, -- bait my hook and cast my line, And feel the best of life is mine.
No high ambition may I claim -- angle not for lordly game Of trout, or bass, or wary bream -- black perch reaches the extreme Of my desires; and "goggle-eyes" Are not a thing that I despise; A sunfish, or a "chub," or "cat" -- A "silver-side" -- yea, even that!
What this Textopian page supports
At Broad Ripple. (Sweet-Knot and Galamus) 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, Pastoral, Nature, Reflective
- Length: 341 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm, meter, and imagery.
- Pastoral — The poem idealizes rural life and nature, emphasizing tranquility and simplicity.
- Nature — The themes and imagery are centered around natural elements like the stream, fish, and the peaceful environment.
- Reflective — The poem contains introspective elements, contemplating the joys and simplicity of life.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Indiana · Rural Life · Nature · Imagery · Symbolism · Folklore · Mythology · Local Color · Regionalism