The Brook-Song
This poem is a nostalgic and melancholic reflection on the passing of time and the fleeting nature of life. It describes a brook that has been a constant presence in the speaker's life, but now seems to be disappearing or changing. The poem explores themes of loss, memory, and the human experience.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Children's Literature, Nature Writing · 305 words
First lines
Little brook! Little brook!
You have such a happy look -- Such a very merry manner, as you swerve and curve and crook -- And your ripples, one and one, Reach each other's hands and run Like laughing little children in the sun!
What this Textopian page supports
The Brook-Song 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, Children's Literature, Nature Writing, Pastoral
- Length: 305 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse, with a focus on rhythm, rhyme, and imagery, characteristic of poetic form.
- Children's Literature — The themes and language are simple and whimsical, appealing to a younger audience with elements of nature and play.
- Nature Writing — The poem vividly describes natural elements like the brook, bumblebee, and dragonfly, emphasizing the beauty and liveliness of nature.
- Pastoral — The setting and themes reflect an idealized view of rural life and nature, common in pastoral literature.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Song · Stream · Brook · Rural · Idyllic · Peaceful · Serene · Whimsical · Imagery · Symbolism