Floretty's Musical Contribution
The poem explores the theme of nostalgia and the passing of time through the lens of music. It describes how a person's musical tastes change over the years, from the lively tunes of youth to the more subdued melodies of adulthood. The speaker reflects on how their love for music has remained constant despite these changes, serving as a source of comfort and connection to their past.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1879 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Children's Literature · 1,402 words
First lines
All seemed delighted, though the elders more, Of course, than were the children. -- Thus, before Much interchange of mirthful compliment, The story-teller said _his_ stories "went" (Like a bad candle) _best_ when they went _out_, -- And that some sprightly music, dashed about, Would _wholly_ quench his "glimmer," and inspire Far brighter lights.
And, answering this desire, The flutist opened, in a rapturous strain Of rippling notes -- a perfect April-rain Of melody that drenched the senses through; -- Then -- gentler -- gentler -- as the dusk sheds dew, It fell, by velvety, staccatoed halts, Swooning away in old "Von Weber's Waltz."
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Floretty's Musical Contribution is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1879 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: 1879 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Humor, Children's Literature, Folk, Musical
- Length: 1,402 words
- Structure: 1 section, 23 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form with rhyming lines and a lyrical quality.
- Humor — The narrative includes playful language and humorous situations, particularly in the interactions between characters.
- Children's Literature — The content involves children and is suitable for a younger audience, with themes of imagination and play.
- Folk — The story incorporates elements of folklore, such as fairies and traditional storytelling.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · 19th Century · Children's Literature · Humorous · Satirical · Social Commentary · Folkloric · Regionalism · Indiana · Midwestern · Rural Life