Ezra House by James Whitcomb Riley
The novel revolves around Ezra House, a young man who returns to his hometown after serving in the Civil War. He becomes embroiled in local politics and romance, struggling with the changing values of his community. The story explores themes of identity, morality, and the complexities of small-town life.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Historical Fiction, Tragedy · 1,094 words
First lines
[These lines was writ, in ruther high sperits, jest at the close of what's called the Anti Bellum Days, and more to be a-foolin' than anything else, -- though they is more er less facts in it. But some of the boys, at the time we was all a-singin' it, fer Ezry's benefit, to the old tune of "The Oak and the Ash and the Bonny Willer Tree," got it struck off in the weekly, without leave er lisence of mine; and so sence they's allus some of 'em left to rigg me about it yit, I might as well claim the thing right here and now, so here goes. I give it jest as it appeared, fixed up and grammatisized consider'ble, as the editer told me he took the liburty of doin', in that sturling old home paper THE ADVANCE -- as sound a paper yit to-day and as stanch and abul as you'll find in a hunderd.]
What this Textopian page supports
Ezra House is listed on Textopian as a short story 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: Short story
- Author: James Whitcomb Riley
- Date: 1883 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Historical Fiction, Tragedy, Romance, War Fiction
- Length: 1,094 words
- Structure: 1 section, 15 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Ezra House by James Whitcomb Riley
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Historical Fiction — The narrative is set during the American Civil War, incorporating historical events and settings.
- Tragedy — The story involves the protagonist's misfortunes and ultimate downfall, typical of a tragic narrative.
- Romance — The plot includes a romantic relationship and emotional farewells, central to the narrative.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · 19th Century · Indiana Setting · Rural Life · Folklore · Mythology · Symbolism · Imagery · Nature Description · Mystery · Supernatural Elements