My Ruthers by James Whitcomb Riley
The poem is a nostalgic and sentimental tribute to the speaker's childhood home and family. It explores themes of love, loss, and the passing of time through the lens of a rural Indiana setting. The speaker reflects on memories of their youth, including their mother's cooking and the beauty of nature in the area.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1888 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Social Commentary · 583 words
First lines
[Writ durin' State Fair at Indanoplis, whilse visitin' a Sonin-law then residin' thare, who has sence got back to the country whare he says a man that's raised thare ort to a-stayed in the first place.]
I tell you what I'd ruther do -- Ef I only had my ruthers, -- I'd ruther work when I wanted to Than be bossed round by others; -- I'd ruther kindo' git the swing O' what was _needed_, first, I jing! Afore I _swet_ at anything! -- Ef I only had my ruthers; -- In fact I'd aim to be the same With all men as my brothers; And they'd all be the same with _me_ -- Ef I only had my ruthers.
What this Textopian page supports
My Ruthers 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, Humor, Social Commentary, Regionalism, Nostalgia
- Length: 583 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse form with a rhythmic and rhyming structure, characteristic of poetry.
- Humor — The text contains humorous elements, including light-hearted observations and playful language.
- Social Commentary — The poem reflects on societal issues such as economic disparity and social justice, offering critique and insight.
- Regionalism — The language and setting are specific to a particular region, capturing the local dialect and culture.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Indiana · Regionalism · Folklore · Children's Literature · Nostalgia · Rural Life · Family · Love · Marriage