Because by James Whitcomb Riley
The poem explores the theme of nostalgia and longing for a simpler time. It describes a rural landscape where children play freely and are cared for by their community. The speaker reflects on the passing of childhood and the loss of innocence that comes with growing up.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1880 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical · 185 words
First lines
Why did we meet long years of yore? And why did we strike hands and say "We will be friends and nothing more"; Why are we musing thus to-day? Because because was just because, And no one knew just why it was.
Why did I say good-by to you? Why did I sail across the main? Why did I love not heaven's own blue Until I touched these shores again? Because because was just because, And you nor I knew why it was.
Why are my arms about you now, And happy tears upon your cheek? And why my kisses on your brow? Look up in thankfulness and speak! Because because was just because, And only God knew why it was.
What this Textopian page supports
Because is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1880 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: 1880 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical, Reflective
- Length: 185 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- The Inevitable by Emily Dickinson
- Out Of Reach by James Whitcomb Riley
- Superiority To Fate by Emily Dickinson
- Festus by Philip James Bailey
- If I Should Ever By Chance by Edward Thomas
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Romance — The themes of love, separation, and reunion are central to the narrative.
- Philosophical — The repeated questioning of 'why' and the existential nature of 'because' suggest a philosophical exploration of fate and destiny.
- Reflective — The poem reflects on past events and emotions, indicating a reflective tone.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Nature · Philosophy · Existentialism · Mortality · Life · Death · Fate · Free Will · Determinism