The Happy Little Cripple
This poem is a nostalgic and sentimental portrayal of childhood innocence and the passing of time. It describes a young boy's carefree existence, marked by his physical disability, which is depicted in a matter-of-fact manner. The speaker reflects on how the boy's condition has not diminished his joy or sense of wonder, but rather serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of childhood.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1879 · Genre: Poetry, Children's Literature, Realism · 750 words
First lines
I'm thist a little cripple boy, an' never goin' to grow An' get a great big man at all! -- 'cause Aunty told me so.
When I was thist a baby onc't, I falled out of the bed An' got "The Curv'ture of the Spine" -- 'at's what the Doctor said.
What this Textopian page supports
The Happy Little Cripple 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, Children's Literature, Realism, Sentimental Literature, Domestic Fiction
- Length: 750 words
- Structure: 1 section, 13 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
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- The Old Home Folks by James Whitcomb Riley
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Children's Literature — The narrative is from the perspective of a child, with themes and language accessible to young readers.
- Realism — The poem presents a realistic portrayal of a child's life with physical challenges and social circumstances.
- Sentimental Literature — The work evokes sympathy and emotional response through the depiction of the child's hardships and resilience.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Children's Literature · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Disability · Inclusion · Empowerment · Self-Discovery · Coming of Age