The Hereafter by James Whitcomb Riley
The poem explores the idea of a peaceful afterlife where loved ones reunite with those who have passed away. It describes a serene and idyllic landscape where memories are cherished and time stands still. The speaker reflects on the joys of being reunited with deceased family members, particularly children, in a realm free from pain and sorrow.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1880 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual · 75 words
First lines
Hereafter! O we need not waste / Our smiles or tears, whatever befall: / No happiness but holds a taste / Of something sweeter, after all; -- / No depth of agony but feels / Some fragment of abiding trust, -- / Whatever death unlocks or seals, / The mute beyond is just.
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions about life, death, and the afterlife.
- Spiritual — The content reflects on spiritual concepts such as trust and the afterlife.
- Reflective — The work encourages introspection on emotional experiences and their deeper meanings.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Spirituality · Afterlife · Mortality · Philosophy · Religion · Symbolism · Imagery · Nature · Death
What this Textopian page supports
The Hereafter is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1880 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: 1880 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual, Reflective
- Length: 75 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
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