The Little White Hearse
This poem is a lamentation of the passing of childhood innocence and the inevitability of death. It describes a hearse that appears to be made entirely of white flowers, symbolizing purity and innocence. The speaker reflects on how this hearse represents the loss of youth and the fragility of life.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1888 · Genre: Poetry, Tragedy, Realism · 279 words
First lines
As the little white hearse went glimmering by- The man on the coal-cart jerked his lines, And smutted the lid of either eye, And turned and stared at the business signs; And the street-car driver stopped and beat His hands on his shoulders, and gazed up-street Till his eye on the long track reached the sky- As the little white hearse went glimmering by.
As the little white hearse went glimmering by- A stranger petted a ragged child In the crowded walks, and she knew not why, But he gave her a coin for the way she smiled; And a boot-black thrilled with a pleasure strange, As a customer put back his change With a kindly hand and a grateful sigh, As the little white hearse went glimmering by.
What this Textopian page supports
The Little White Hearse is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1888 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: 1888 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Tragedy, Realism, Social Commentary
- Length: 279 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a rhythmic and lyrical quality, characteristic of poetry.
- Tragedy — The central theme revolves around death and loss, evoking a sense of sorrow and mourning.
- Realism — The depiction of everyday people and their reactions to the hearse reflects realistic and relatable human emotions.
- Social Commentary — The narrative highlights societal interactions and the impact of death on different social classes.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Death · Mortality · Folklore · Regionalism · Midwestern · Rural Life