Envoy by James Whitcomb Riley (1881)
The poem is a nostalgic and melancholic reflection on the passing of time and the fleeting nature of life. It describes an old man's memories of his youth and the loss of innocence that comes with age. The speaker laments the decline of his physical and mental abilities, as well as the changing world around him.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1881 · Genre: Poetry, Reflective, Nostalgia · 538 words
First lines
Many pleasures of youth have been buoyantly sung -- And, borne on the winds of delight, may they beat With their palpitant wings at the hearts of the Young, And in bosoms of Age find as warm a retreat! -- Yet sweetest of all of the musical throng, Though least of the numbers that upward aspire, Is the one rising now into wavering song, As I sit in the silence and gaze in the fire.
What this Textopian page supports
Envoy is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1881 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: 1881 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Reflective, Nostalgia, Sentimental, Romanticism
- Length: 538 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Reflective — The poem reflects on past experiences and emotions, focusing on introspection and memory.
- Nostalgia — Themes of longing for the past and reminiscing about youth and loved ones are central to the poem.
- Sentimental — The poem evokes strong emotions and sentimentality, particularly through its depiction of familial and youthful memories.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Nature · Symbolism · Imagery · Figurative Language · Metaphor · Simile · Personification · Alliteration · Assonance