Becalmed by James Whitcomb Riley
The poem describes a serene and peaceful scene of a lake on a summer day. The water is calm, with no wind to disturb it. A sailboat drifts lazily across the surface, its sails limp and still. The atmosphere is tranquil, with a sense of time standing still. The speaker reflects on the beauty of this moment, finding solace in the peacefulness of nature.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Pastoral · 221 words
First lines
1. Would that the winds might only blow As they blew in the golden long ago -- !
Laden with odors of Orient isles Where ever and ever the sunshine smiles, And the bright sands blend with the shady trees, And the lotus blooms in the midst of these.
2. Warm winds won from the midland vales To where the tress of the Siren trails O'er the flossy tip of the mountain phlox And the bare limbs twined in the crested rocks, High above as the seagulls flap Their lopping wings at the thunder-clap.
What this Textopian page supports
Becalmed 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, Romanticism, Pastoral, Mythological
- Length: 221 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Becalmed by James Whitcomb Riley
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm, meter, and imagery, characteristic of poetry.
- Romanticism — The text emphasizes emotion, nature, and nostalgia, aligning with Romantic themes.
- Pastoral — The imagery of nature and idyllic landscapes reflects pastoral elements.
- Mythological — References to Jason and Medea suggest mythological influences.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Nature · Peaceful · Serene · Reflection · Meditation · Solitude · Quiet · Stillness · Calm