Sister Jones's Confession
The story revolves around a young woman who has been wrongfully accused of theft and is awaiting execution. She confesses to the crime, but it becomes clear that she is innocent. The narrative explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the consequences of false accusations.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1879 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Humor · 221 words
First lines
I thought the deacon liked me, yit I warn't adzackly shore of it -- Fer, mind ye, time and time agin, When jiners 'ud be comin' in, I'd seed him shakin' hands as free With all the sistern as with me!
But jurin' last Revival, where He called on _me_ to lead in prayer, An' kneeled there with me, side by side, A-whisper'n' "he felt sanctified Jes' tetchin of my gyarment's hem," -- That settled things as fur as them- Thare other wimmin was concerned! -- And -- well! -- I know I must a-turned A dozen colors! -- _Flurried_? -- _la_! -- No mortal sinner never saw A gladder widder than the one A-kneelin' there and wonderun' Who'd pray' -- So glad, upon my word, I railly could n't thank the Lord!
What this Textopian page supports
Sister Jones's Confession is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1879 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: 1879 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Humor, Romance, Drama
- Length: 221 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Sister Jones's Confession 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
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Religious — The themes revolve around religious practices, such as prayer and revival meetings.
- Humor — The tone and narrative style suggest a humorous take on personal and religious experiences.
- Romance — The narrative hints at romantic interest and personal relationships within a religious context.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · 19th Century · Regionalism · Midwestern · Folklore · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Rural Life · Family Dynamics · Coming of Age