The Text by James Whitcomb Riley
The poem is a nostalgic and melancholic reflection on the passing of time and the loss of innocence. It explores the theme of childhood's fleeting nature and the inevitability of growing up. The speaker reminisces about the carefree days of youth, now lost forever, and laments the transition to adulthood with its responsibilities and hardships.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1877 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical · 138 words
First lines
The text: Love thou thy fellow man! / He may have sinned; -- One proof indeed, / He is thy fellow, reach thy hand / And help him in his need!
Love thou thy fellow man. He may / Have wronged thee -- then, the less excuse / Thou hast for wronging him. Obey / What he has dared refuse!
Love thou thy fellow man -- for, be / His life a light or heavy load, / No less he needs the love of thee / To help him on his road.
What this Textopian page supports
The Text is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1877 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: 1877 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical, Religious
- Length: 138 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
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- Work identity for The Text by James Whitcomb Riley
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a rhythmic and lyrical quality, characteristic of poetry.
- Inspirational — The themes focus on love, compassion, and moral guidance, aiming to inspire and uplift the reader.
- Philosophical — The text explores philosophical themes of human connection and moral duty, encouraging reflection on ethical behavior.
- Religious — The work contains elements of religious moral teachings, emphasizing love and forgiveness, akin to religious texts.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Free Verse · Nature Imagery · Symbolism · Imagery · Figurative Language · Metaphor · Simile · Alliteration · Assonance