Honey Dripping from the Comb
The poem describes a nostalgic scene of childhood summers spent on a farm. The speaker recalls the sweetness of honey dripping from a beehive and the joy of watching children play in the sun. The poem's tone is idyllic, evoking a sense of simplicity and innocence. It explores themes of nostalgia, childhood, and the passing of time.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Nostalgia, Pastoral · 171 words
First lines
How slight a thing may set one's fancy drifting Upon the dead sea of the Past! -- A view -- Sometimes an odor -- or a rooster lifting A far-off "OOH! OOH-OOH!"
And suddenly we find ourselves astray In some wood's-pasture of the Long Ago -- Or idly dream again upon a day Of rest we used to know.
I bit an apple but a moment since -- A wilted apple that the worm had spurned, -- Yet hidden in the taste were happy hints Of good old days returned. --
And so my heart, like some enraptured lute, Tinkles a tune so tender and complete, God's blessing must be resting on the fruit -- So bitter, yet so sweet!
What this Textopian page supports
Honey Dripping from the Comb 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, Nostalgia, Pastoral, Sentimental
- Length: 171 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for Honey Dripping from the Comb by James Whitcomb Riley
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Nostalgia — The themes revolve around memories and reflections on the past, evoking a sense of longing for bygone days.
- Pastoral — Imagery related to nature and rural life is prominent, reflecting a pastoral quality.
- Sentimental — The emotional tone is tender and reflective, aiming to evoke feelings of warmth and sentimentality.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Imagery · Symbolism · Metaphor · Simile · Personification · Alliteration · Rhyme · Free Verse · American Literature · 19th Century Literature