The Little Fat Doctor by James Whitcomb Riley
This collection of poems explores themes of childhood innocence and the passing of time through a series of nostalgic vignettes. The doctor's character serves as a symbol for wisdom and experience, while also highlighting the fragility of life and the inevitability of change.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1875 · Genre: Poetry, Nostalgia, Humor · 252 words
First lines
He seemed so strange to me, every way -- / In manner, and form, and size, / From the boy I knew but yesterday, -- / I could hardly believe my eyes!
To hear his name called over there, / My memory thrilled with glee / And leaped to picture him young and fair / In youth, as he used to be.
But looking, only as glad eyes can, / For the boy I knew of yore, / I smiled on a portly little man / I had never seen before! --
Grave as a judge in courtliness -- / Professor-like and bland -- / A little fat doctor and nothing less, / With his hat in his kimboed hand.
What this Textopian page supports
The Little Fat Doctor is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1875 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: 1875 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Nostalgia, Humor, Friendship, Character Study
- Length: 252 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Little Fat Doctor by James Whitcomb Riley
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Nostalgia — The themes revolve around reminiscing about the past and the changes time brings.
- Humor — The poem contains light-hearted and humorous elements, especially in the depiction of the 'little fat doctor.'
- Friendship — The interaction between the narrator and the doctor highlights themes of camaraderie and shared history.
Tags
Children's Literature · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Fiction · Novel · American Literature · 19th Century Literature · Medical Profession · Obesity · Body Image · Self-Acceptance