Sleep by James Whitcomb Riley (1883)
The poem explores the theme of sleep as a universal human experience that transcends social class and status. It describes the peacefulness and rejuvenation that comes with sleep, contrasting it with the hardships and struggles of everyday life. The speaker reflects on how sleep can be both a source of comfort and a reminder of mortality.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Lyrical, Romantic · 161 words
First lines
Orphaned, I cry to thee: Sweet sleep! O kneel and be A mother unto me!
Calm thou my childish fears: Fold -- fold mine eyelids to, all tenderly, And dry my tears.
Come, Sleep, all drowsy-eyed And faint with languor, -- slide Thy dim face down beside Mine own, and let me rest And nestle in thy heart, and there abide, A favored guest.
Good night to every care, And shadow of despair!
What this Textopian page supports
Sleep 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, Lyrical, Romantic, Pastoral, Sentimental
- Length: 161 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Sleep 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
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Sleep?
- How does this poem by James Whitcomb Riley fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- A Noon Lull by James Whitcomb Riley
- At Dusk by James Whitcomb Riley
- A Dream Of Autumn by James Whitcomb Riley
- Another Old Song by Edward Thomas
- Becalmed by James Whitcomb Riley
- Indian Summer Of Skies And Seasons by Henry Van Dyke
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 poetry.
- Romantic — Themes of nature, emotion, and individual experience align with Romantic literary traditions.
- Pastoral — The work evokes a sense of calm and simplicity, often associated with pastoral themes.
Tags
Poetry · Sleep · Dreams · Nighttime · Rest · Relaxation · Peaceful · Quiet · Solitude · Meditative · Reflection · Imagery