George a. Carr. Greenfield, July 21, 1914
The poem is a nostalgic and melancholic reflection on the passing of time and the fleeting nature of life. It describes a summer day in Greenfield, Indiana, where the speaker recalls a past love who has since moved away. The poem's tone is wistful and introspective, with a focus on the bittersweet memories of a lost love.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Elegy, Nostalgia · 195 words
First lines
O playmate of the far-away And dear delights of Boyhood's day, And friend and comrade true and tried Through length of years of life beside, I bid you thus a fond farewell Too deep for words or tears to tell.
But though I lose you, nevermore To greet you at the open door, To grasp your hand or see your smile, I shall be thankful all the while Because your love and loyalty Have made a happier world for me.
So rest you, Playmate, in that land Still hidden from us by His hand, Where you may know again in truth All of the glad days of your youth -- As when in days of endless ease We played beneath the apple trees.
What this Textopian page supports
George a. Carr. Greenfield, July 21, 1914 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, Elegy, Nostalgia, Friendship, Sentimental
- Length: 195 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Elegy — The poem expresses sorrow and lamentation for the loss of a friend, fitting the elegiac tradition.
- Nostalgia — Themes of reminiscing about past joys and childhood are central to the work.
- Friendship — The poem centers on the deep bond and loyalty between friends.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Indiana · Regionalism · Rural Life · Nature · Imagery · Symbolism · Free Verse · Lyric Poetry · Autobiographical Elements