Being his Mother
The poem explores the complex relationship between a mother and her son, highlighting the unconditional love and devotion she has for him. It delves into themes of maternal sacrifice, selflessness, and the enduring bond between parent and child. The speaker reflects on the ways in which their mother's presence has shaped their life, from childhood to adulthood, and grapples with the idea that her influence will continue even after she is gone.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1878 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Emotional · 166 words
First lines
Being his mother -- when he goes away I would not hold him overlong, and so Sometimes my yielding sight of him grows O So quick of tears, I joy he did not stay To catch the faintest rumor of them! Nay, Leave always his eyes clear and glad, although Mine own, dear Lord, do fill to overflow; Let his remembered features, as I pray, Smile ever on me! Ah! what stress of love Thou givest me to guard with Thee thiswise: Its fullest speech ever to be denied Mine own -- being his mother! All thereof Thou knowest only, looking from the skies As when not Christ alone was crucified.
What this Textopian page supports
Being his Mother is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1878 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: 1878 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Emotional, Reflective
- Length: 166 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Religious — The text contains religious themes, referencing the Lord and Christ, and reflects on spiritual aspects of motherhood.
- Emotional — The poem explores deep emotional themes related to love, loss, and longing from a mother's perspective.
- Reflective — The work is introspective, focusing on the internal thoughts and feelings of a mother contemplating her relationship with her child.
Tags
Poetry · Family · Motherhood · Relationships · Love · Nurturing · Caregiving · Parenting · Emotional · Intimate · Personal · Reflective