The Lost Path. (down Around the River Poems)
This collection of poems explores themes of nostalgia and longing for a lost era. The poems are written in a nostalgic tone, evoking memories of childhood summers spent along the River Po. They express a sense of melancholy and wistfulness for a time that has passed. The speaker reflects on the changing seasons and the fleeting nature of youth.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1887 · Genre: Poetry, Romantic, Pastoral · 228 words
First lines
Alone they walked -- their fingers knit together, And swaying listlessly as might a swing Wherein Dan Cupid dangled in the weather Of some sun-flooded afternoon of Spring.
Within the clover-fields the tickled cricket Laughed lightly as they loitered down the lane, And from the covert of the hazel-thicket The squirrel peeped and laughed at them again.
The bumble-bee that tipped the lily-vases Along the road-side in the shadows dim, Went following the blossoms of their faces As though their sweets must needs be shared with him.
What this Textopian page supports
The Lost Path. (down Around the River Poems) is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1887 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: James Whitcomb Riley
- Date: 1887 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romantic, Pastoral, Symbolism
- Length: 228 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Romantic — Themes of love and idyllic imagery are prevalent, focusing on a couple's journey and connection.
- Pastoral — The setting and imagery are rooted in nature, with references to fields, animals, and rural life.
- Symbolism — The use of symbols such as Cupid, bees, and cattle convey deeper meanings related to love and harmony with nature.
Tags
Poetry Collection · American Literature · 19th Century Poetry · River Poems · Nature Poetry · Regionalism · Midwestern American Culture · Rural Life · Folk Poetry · Traditional Forms · Ballads · Free Verse