Dearth (Sonnets)
This collection of sonnets explores themes of mortality and the passing of time. The poems express a sense of melancholy and longing for what has been lost. They also touch on the idea that death can be a transformative experience, allowing individuals to transcend their earthly concerns and connect with something greater.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Drama · 162 words
First lines
I hold your trembling hand to-night -- and yet I may not know what wealth of bliss is mine, My heart is such a curious design Of trust and jealousy! Your eyes are wet -- So must I think they jewel some regret -- , And lo, the loving arms that round me twine Cling only as the tendrils of a vine Whose fruit has long been gathered: I forget, While crimson clusters of your kisses press Their wine out on my lips, my royal fair Of rapture, since blind fancy needs must guess They once poured out their sweetness otherwhere, With fuller flavoring of happiness Than e'en your broken sobs may now declare.
What this Textopian page supports
Dearth (Sonnets) 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, Romance, Drama
- Length: 162 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured as a sonnet, a traditional poetic form, and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Romance — The themes revolve around love, intimacy, and emotional connection, typical of romantic literature.
- Drama — The emotional intensity and exploration of complex feelings like jealousy and regret add a dramatic element.
Tags
Poetry · Sonnets · American Literature · 19th Century · Death · Mortality · Loss · Grief · Elegy · Formal Verse · Rhyme Scheme · Iambic Pentameter