Scotty by James Whitcomb Riley
The poem explores the theme of nostalgia and longing for a simpler time. It describes a childhood memory of a boy named Scotty who is now grown up and has moved away from his rural home. The speaker reflects on how much Scotty has changed and how he misses the carefree days of his youth.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1887 · Genre: Poetry, Narrative, Humor · 354 words
First lines
Scotty's dead -- Of course he is! Jes' that same old luck of his! -- Ever sence we went cahoots He's be'n first, you bet yer boots! When our schoolin' first begun, Got two whippin's to my one: Stold and smoked the first cigar: Stood up first before the bar, Takin' whisky-straight -- and me Wastin' time on "blackberry"!
What this Textopian page supports
Scotty 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, Narrative, Humor, Friendship, War
- Length: 354 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Scotty by James Whitcomb Riley
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Scotty?
- How does this poem by James Whitcomb Riley fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Narrative — The poem tells a story about the speaker's relationship with Scotty, detailing events and experiences.
- Humor — The tone and content include humorous elements, such as the speaker's self-deprecating comparisons to Scotty.
- Friendship — The central theme revolves around the friendship and shared experiences between the speaker and Scotty.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Children's Book · Nursery Rhyme · Folklore · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Rural Life · Farm Life · Animal Story