The Old-Fashioned Bible by James Whitcomb Riley
This collection of poetry explores themes of nostalgia and the passing of time, often referencing traditional American values and customs. The poems frequently use a folksy, down-to-earth tone to convey a sense of simplicity and authenticity.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Nostalgia, Religious · 380 words
First lines
How dear to my heart are the scenes of my childhood / That now but in mem'ry I sadly review; / The old meeting-house at the edge of the wildwood, / The rail fence, and horses all tethered thereto; / The low, sloping roof, and the bell in the steeple, / The doves that came fluttering out overhead / As it solemnly gathered the God-fearing people / To hear the old Bible my grandfather read. / The old-fashioned Bible -- / The dust-covered Bible -- / The leathern-bound Bible my grandfather read.
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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 fond memories of childhood and the past.
- Religious — The central focus is on the Bible and its significance in the narrator's life.
- Family — The narrative centers on the relationship with the grandfather and shared family traditions.
Tags
Poetry Collection · American Literature · 19th Century Literature · Indiana Author · Christian Themes · Biblical References · Nostalgia · Sentimental Value · Rural Life · Folk Culture · Spirituality · Moral Guidance
What this Textopian page supports
The Old-Fashioned Bible 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, Nostalgia, Religious, Family, Historical
- Length: 380 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Old-Fashioned Bible by James Whitcomb Riley
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