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Born to the Purpl. [W. M.] (some Songs after Mas
The poem explores the theme of a child's innocence and wonder, using the metaphor of being born to the purple, implying royalty. The speaker describes the joys of childhood, including playing with flowers and watching birds sing. The tone is nostalgic and idyllic, highlighting the beauty of youth.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1888 · Genre: Poetry, Fantasy, Romance · 344 words
First lines
Most-like it was this kingly lad Spake out of the pure joy he had In his child-heart of the wee maid Whose eerie beauty sudden laid A spell upon him, and his words Burst as a song of any bird's: --
A peerless Princess thou shalt be, Through wit of love's rare sorcery: To crown the crown of thy gold hair Thou shalt have rubies, bleeding there Their crimson splendor midst the marred Pulp of great pearls, and afterward
What this Textopian page supports
Born to the Purpl. [W. M.] (some Songs after Master Singers) 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, Fantasy, Romance, Children's Literature
- Length: 344 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for Born to the Purpl. [W. M.] (some Songs after Master Singers) by James Whitcomb Riley
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm, meter, and vivid imagery, characteristic of poetry.
- Fantasy — The text includes fantastical elements such as magical transformations, mythical creatures, and enchanted objects, typical of fantasy literature.
- Romance — Themes of love and admiration are central, with a focus on the beauty and allure of the 'wee maid,' aligning with romantic literature.
- Children's Literature — The whimsical and imaginative nature of the narrative, along with its fairy-tale elements, make it suitable for a younger audience.
Tags
Poetry Collection · American Literature · 19th Century Poetry · Children's Literature · Nursery Rhymes · Folk Songs · Musical Influences · Lyric Poetry · Free Verse · Whimsy · Imagination · Fantasy
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