The Little Old Poem that Nobody Reads
This poem is a nostalgic and melancholic reflection on the passing of time and the fleeting nature of life. It describes an old poem that has been forgotten by society, yet still holds sentimental value for those who remember it. The speaker laments the decline of traditional values and the loss of cultural heritage, as people increasingly turn to more modern and superficial forms of entertainment.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Reflective, Philosophical · 255 words
First lines
The little old poem that nobody reads Blooms in a crowded space, Like a ground-vine blossom, so low in the weeds That nobody sees its face -- Unless, perchance, the reader's eye Stares through a yawn, and hurries by, For no one wants, or loves, or heeds, The little old poem that nobody reads.
The little old poem that nobody reads Was written -- where? -- and when? Maybe a hand of goodly deeds Thrilled as it held the pen: Maybe the fountain whence it came Was a heart brimmed o'er with tears of shame, And maybe its creed is the worst of creeds -- The little old poem that nobody reads.
What this Textopian page supports
The Little Old Poem that Nobody Reads 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, Reflective, Philosophical, Sentimental, Literary
- Length: 255 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Reflective — The poem contemplates the nature of being overlooked and the intrinsic value of unnoticed things.
- Philosophical — It explores themes of existence, perception, and the value of art and literature.
- Sentimental — The poem evokes emotions related to neglect, appreciation, and the longing for recognition.
Tags
Poetry Collection · American Literature · 19th Century Poetry · Humorous Verse · Satire · Social Commentary · Regionalism · Midwestern Culture · Folkloric Elements · Whimsy · Nostalgia · Simple Language