Job Work by James Whitcomb Riley
The poem explores the theme of work and its value in society. It portrays a young boy who is tasked with doing various jobs around the house and farm, from feeding animals to chopping wood. The speaker reflects on the importance of these tasks, highlighting their contribution to the family's well-being and the community's prosperity. Through the boy's experiences, the poem conveys a sense of responsibility, hard work, and self-reliance. It also touches on the idea that even the most mundane tasks are essential to maintaining a household and contributing to the greater good. The speaker's tone is matter-of-fact, yet appreciative of the boy's efforts. The poem presents a nostalgic view of rural life, where children learn valuable skills and take pride in their work.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1880 · Genre: Poetry, Social Commentary, Political · 316 words
First lines
"Write me a rhyme of the present time".
And the poet took his pen And wrote such lines as the miser minds Hide in the hearts of men.
What this Textopian page supports
Job Work 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, Social Commentary, Political, Romance, Satire
- Length: 316 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Social Commentary — The themes address societal issues such as national wrongs, religion, and monopoly.
- Political — It discusses themes of patriotism and national struggles.
- Romance — It includes themes of love, marriage, and family life.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century Literature · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Labor Movement · Industrialization · Working Class · Class Struggle · Poetic Form · Free Verse