Kissing the Rod. (down Around the River Poems)
The poem explores themes of love and loss through a metaphorical kiss to the rod that symbolizes the speaker's longing for a loved one who has been taken away. The speaker's emotions are conveyed through vivid imagery and symbolism, highlighting the pain of separation and the enduring power of love.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1887 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical · 219 words
First lines
O heart of mine, we shouldn't Worry so! What we've missed of calm we couldn't Have, you know! What we've met of stormy pain, And of sorrow's driving rain, We can better meet again, If it blow!
We have erred in that dark hour We have known, When our tears fell with the shower, All alone! -- Were not shine and shadow blent As the gracious Master meant? -- Let us temper our content With His own.
For, we know, not every morrow Can be sad; So, forgetting all the sorrow We have had, Let us fold away our fears, And put by our foolish tears, And through all the coming years Just be glad.
What this Textopian page supports
Kissing the Rod. (down Around the River Poems) 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, Inspirational, Philosophical, Pastoral
- Length: 219 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter, which are characteristic of poetry.
- Inspirational — The themes focus on overcoming adversity and finding contentment, which are common in inspirational literature.
- Philosophical — The text explores existential themes such as suffering, contentment, and the human condition, aligning with philosophical literature.
- Pastoral — The use of natural imagery and references to weather and seasons suggest a pastoral influence.
Tags
Poetry Collection · American Literature · 19th Century Poetry · Regionalism · Midwestern Poetry · Rural Life · Nature Imagery · Symbolism · Folk Culture · Oral Tradition · Ballads · Free Verse