Down Around the River
The poem explores themes of nostalgia and longing for a lost era. It describes a serene landscape by a river where children play and laugh, evoking a sense of carefree innocence. The speaker reflects on the passing of time and how it has altered the world, leaving behind only memories of a simpler past.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Pastoral, Regionalism · 504 words
First lines
Noon-time an' June-time, down around the river!
Have to furse with 'Lizey Ann -- but lawzy! I fergive her!
What this Textopian page supports
Down Around the River 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, Pastoral, Regionalism, Humor
- Length: 504 words
- Structure: 1 section, 11 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Down Around the River 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
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- A Scrawl by James Whitcomb Riley
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- Our Old Friend Neverfail by James Whitcomb Riley
- Waitin Fer The Cat To Die by James Whitcomb Riley
- In The Heart Of June by James Whitcomb Riley
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a rhythmic and lyrical quality, characteristic of poetry.
- Pastoral — The themes and imagery focus on rural life and nature, typical of pastoral literature.
- Regionalism — The use of dialect and specific regional settings highlights the local color and culture.
- Humor — The playful language and light-hearted depiction of everyday life suggest a humorous tone.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Children's Verse · Nature Imagery · Riverine Setting · Whimsy · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Folk Culture · Regionalism