Blind by James Whitcomb Riley (1875)
The poem explores the theme of blindness and sight, contrasting physical blindness with spiritual insight. The speaker describes a blind man who has gained wisdom through his experiences, while those around him remain oblivious to their own limitations. The poem suggests that true understanding comes from within, rather than from external senses.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1875 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Drama · 2,221 words
First lines
You think it is a sorry thing That I am blind. Your pitying Is welcome to me; yet indeed, I think I have but little need Of it. Though you may marvel much That _we_, who see by sense of touch And taste and hearing, see things _you_ May never look upon; and true Is it that even in the scent Of blossoms _we_ find something meant No eyes have in their faces read, Or wept to see interpreted.
And you might think it strange if now I told you you were smiling. How Do I know that? I hold your hand -- _Its_ language I can understand -- Give both to me, and I will show You many other things I know.
What this Textopian page supports
Blind is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1875 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: 1875 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Drama, Psychological Fiction, Philosophical Fiction
- Length: 2,221 words
- Structure: 1 section, 28 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Blind by James Whitcomb Riley
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Blind?
- How does this poem by James Whitcomb Riley fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Romance — The narrative centers around themes of love, relationships, and emotional connections.
- Drama — The work explores intense emotional conflicts and personal dilemmas, typical of dramatic literature.
- Psychological Fiction — The narrative delves into the inner thoughts and feelings of characters, particularly regarding perception and love.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Nature · Sensory Deprivation · Blindness · Isolation · Loneliness · Mortality · Existentialism · Philosophy · Symbolism