Shadow and Shine
The poem explores the contrast between light and darkness, using the metaphor of a shadow that follows a person who shines brightly. The speaker describes how the shadow grows longer and darker as the person moves away from the light source, symbolizing the way that darkness can spread and engulf everything in its path.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1871 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Nature · 174 words
First lines
Storms of the winter, and deepening snows, When will you end? I said, For the soul within me was numb with woes, And my heart uncomforted. When will you cease, O dismal days? When will you set me free? For the frozen world and its desolate ways Are all unloved of me!
I waited long, but the answer came -- The kiss of the sunshine lay Warm as a flame on the lips that frame The song in my heart to-day. Blossoms of summer-time waved in the air, Glimmers of sun in the sea; Fair thoughts followed me everywhere, And the world was dear to me.
What this Textopian page supports
Shadow and Shine is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1871 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: 1871 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Lyric, Nature, Romantic
- Length: 174 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Shadow and Shine by James Whitcomb Riley
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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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.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, typical of lyric poetry.
- Nature — The themes revolve around natural elements like winter, snow, and sunshine.
- Romantic — The poem emphasizes emotion, nature, and personal reflection, aligning with Romantic literary themes.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Nature Imagery · Symbolism · Mystery · Romance · Fantasy · Imagination · Dreams · Psychological Insight · Emotional Depth