Her Waiting Face by James Whitcomb Riley
The poem explores the theme of unrequited love and longing through a woman's introspection on her past relationships. It delves into the emotional turmoil she experiences when recalling memories of those who have left her, highlighting the pain of nostalgia and the futility of holding onto what has been lost. The speaker's inner monologue reveals a deep sense of melancholy and resignation, underscoring the idea that time cannot be reversed, and love often remains unfulfilled.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Romantic, Fantasy · 38 words
First lines
In some strange place / Of long-lost lands he finds her waiting face -- / Comes marveling upon it, unaware, / Set moonwise in the midnight of her hair.
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Her Waiting Face is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1883 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: James Whitcomb Riley
- Date: 1883 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romantic, Fantasy, Mystery
- Length: 38 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as imagery and metaphor.
- Romantic — The theme revolves around longing and beauty, common in romantic literature.
- Fantasy — The setting and imagery suggest a fantastical or otherworldly environment.
- Mystery — The narrative hints at an enigmatic or unknown place and situation.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Romance · Love Poem · Nature Imagery · Symbolism · Imagery Rich · Emotional · Introspective · Melancholic · Longing