Autumn by James Whitcomb Riley
The poem describes the changing of the seasons from summer to autumn. It portrays autumn as a time of melancholy and nostalgia, with nature's vibrant colors fading into decay. The speaker reflects on the passing of youth and the inevitability of death. The poem explores themes of mortality, loss, and the fleeting nature of life.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1888 · Genre: Poetry, Pastoral, Romanticism · 902 words
First lines
As a harvester, at dusk, Faring down some woody trail Leading homeward through the musk Of may-apple and pawpaw, Hazel-bush, and spice and haw, -- So comes Autumn, swart and hale, Drooped of frame and slow of stride.
But withal an air of pride Looming up in stature far Higher than his shoulders are; Weary both in arm and limb, Yet the wholesome heart of him Sheer at rest and satisfied.
What this Textopian page supports
Autumn 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, Pastoral, Romanticism, Seasonal, Mythological
- Length: 902 words
- Structure: 1 section, 12 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Autumn by James Whitcomb Riley
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Autumn?
- How does this poem by James Whitcomb Riley fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles
- In November by Madison Cawein
- Indian Summer by Madison Cawein
- When Early March Seems Middle May by James Whitcomb Riley
- Wind And Window Flower by Robert Frost
- An Autumn Day by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Another Old Song by Edward Thomas
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse, utilizing rhyme and meter, and employs vivid imagery and metaphor typical of poetry.
- Pastoral — The text celebrates nature and rural life, focusing on the harvest season and its bounty, which are central themes in pastoral literature.
- Romanticism — The work emphasizes emotion, nature, and individualism, reflecting the ideals of the Romantic literary movement.
- Seasonal — The poem is centered around the theme of autumn, exploring its characteristics and impact on nature and human life.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Seasonal · Autumn · Reflection · Mortality · Change · Loss · Nostalgia · Memory · Imagery · Symbolism