Her Valentine

Name: Her Valentine
Author: James Whitcomb Riley

The poem explores the theme of unrequited love and the pain of loving someone who does not return one's affections. The speaker reflects on a past relationship that has ended, but still holds a deep emotional connection to the other person. The poem conveys a sense of longing and nostalgia for what could have been.

By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1880 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Humor · 184 words

First lines

Somebody's sent a funny little valentine to me. It's a bunch of baby-roses in a vase of filigree, And hovering above them -- just as cute as he can be -- Is a fairy Cupid tangled in a scarf of poetry.

And the prankish little fellow looks so knowing in his glee, With his golden bow and arrow, aiming most unerringly At a pair of hearts so labeled that I may read and see That one is meant for "One Who Loves," and one is meant for me.

But I know the lad who sent it! It's as plain as A-B-C! -- For the roses they are _blushing_, and the vase stands _awkwardly_, And the little god above it -- though as cute as he can be -- Can not breathe the lightest whisper of his burning love for me.

What this Textopian page supports

Her Valentine is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1880 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: 1880 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romance, Humor
Length: 184 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Her Valentine 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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How does this poem by James Whitcomb Riley fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
Romance — The theme revolves around love and affection, as indicated by the valentine and Cupid imagery.
Humor — The tone is light-hearted and playful, with elements of humor in the depiction of Cupid and the sender's bashfulness.