John Walsh by James Whitcomb Riley
The poem is a nostalgic tribute to childhood memories of John Walsh, a young boy who has grown up and moved away from his rural home. The speaker reflects on the passing of time and how it has changed John's life, but also notes that some things remain constant, such as the beauty of nature and the simplicity of childhood joys.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1887 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Religious · 301 words
First lines
A strange life -- strangely passed!
We may not read the soul When God has folded up the scroll In death at last.
What this Textopian page supports
John Walsh is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1887 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: 1887 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Religious, Reflective
- Length: 301 words
- Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions about life, death, and divine will, which are central to philosophical inquiry.
- Religious — The text references God and divine judgment, indicating a religious perspective on life and morality.
- Reflective — The work reflects on the nature of life and the human condition, encouraging introspection.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · 19th Century · Indiana Author · Children's Poetry · Humorous Verse · Satire · Social Commentary · Folkloric Elements · Regionalism · Autobiographical · Coming of Age