Lines for an Album by James Whitcomb Riley
The collection of poetry explores themes of love, nature, and the human condition through a series of lyrical and introspective pieces. The poems often employ traditional forms and structures to convey a sense of nostalgia and longing for a simpler time.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1888 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Sentimental · 121 words
First lines
I would not trace the hackneyed phrase / Of shallow words and empty praise, / And prate of "peace" till one might think / My foolish pen was drunk with ink.
Nor will I here the wish express / Of "lasting love and happiness,"
And "cloudless skies" -- for after all / "Into each life some rain must fall."
-- No. Keep the empty page below, / In my remembrance, white as snow -- / Nor sigh to know the secret prayer / My spirit hand has written there.
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deeper reflections on life, happiness, and the nature of existence.
- Sentimental — The content conveys emotions and personal sentiments, focusing on introspective thoughts.
- Literary — The writing style is sophisticated and employs literary devices, appealing to a literary audience.
Tags
Poetry Collection · American Literature · 19th Century Poetry · Indiana Poet · Folk Poetry · Nature Poetry · Love Poetry · Friendship Poetry · Humorous Poetry · Satirical Poetry · Social Commentary · Regionalism
What this Textopian page supports
Lines for an Album is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1888 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: 1888 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Sentimental, Literary
- Length: 121 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
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