Natural Perversities by James Whitcomb Riley
The collection explores the complexities of human nature through a series of poems that examine the contradictions and paradoxes inherent to being alive. It delves into themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in a seemingly chaotic world. The poems often employ irony and satire to highlight the absurdities of societal norms and expectations.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Philosophy · 523 words
First lines
I am not prone to moralize / In scientific doubt / On certain facts that Nature tries / To puzzle us about, -- / For I am no philosopher / Of wise elucidation, / But speak of things as they occur, / From simple observation.
I notice LITTLE things -- to wit: -- / I never missed a train / Because I didn't RUN for it; / I never knew it rain / That my umbrella wasn't lent, -- / Or, when in my possession, / The sun but wore, to all intent, / A jocular expression.
Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Humor — The poem uses wit and irony to highlight the absurdities and contradictions of life.
- Philosophy — The poem reflects on existential themes and the nature of human experience, though in a light-hearted manner.
- Observational — The content is based on observations of everyday life and human behavior.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · 19th Century American Poetry · Whimsy · Folkloric Elements · Regionalism · Midwestern Culture · Rural Life · Nature Imagery
What this Textopian page supports
Natural Perversities is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1883 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: 1883 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Humor, Philosophy, Observational
- Length: 523 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for Natural Perversities by James Whitcomb Riley
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