Our Own by James Whitcomb Riley
The poem explores the theme of nostalgia and longing for a lost childhood innocence. It describes a person's memories of their youth, where they were free from worries and cares, and compares it to their current state of adulthood, which is marked by responsibility and hardship. The speaker reflects on how time has passed and how things have changed, leading to a sense of melancholy and regret for the loss of innocence.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1887 · Genre: Poetry, Lyrical, Elegy · 79 words
First lines
They walk here with us, hand-in-hand; We gossip, knee-by-knee; They tell us all that they have planned -- Of all their joys to be, -- And, laughing, leave us: And, to-day, All desolate we cry Across wide waves of voiceless graves -- Good-by! Good-by! Good-by!
What this Textopian page supports
Our Own 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, Lyrical, Elegy, Sentimental
- Length: 79 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Lyrical — The text expresses personal emotions and feelings, typical of lyrical works.
- Elegy — The theme of mourning and loss is central, aligning with the characteristics of an elegy.
- Sentimental — The work evokes strong emotional responses, a hallmark of sentimental literature.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Children's Verse · Nostalgia · Family · Home · Country Life · Rural Setting · Simple Living · Nature · Seasonal Themes