Tired Out by James Whitcomb Riley
The poem explores the theme of exhaustion and the struggle to find rest. The speaker describes a state of physical and mental fatigue, where even the simplest tasks seem overwhelming. Despite the desire for sleep, the mind remains active, replaying worries and concerns. The poem suggests that true rest is elusive, and that even in moments of quiet, the mind continues to work.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Lyrical, Melancholic · 232 words
First lines
"tired out! " Yet face and brow Do not look aweary now, And the eyelids lie like two Pure, white rose-leaves washed with dew.
Was her life so hard a task? -- Strange that we forget to ask What the lips now dumb for aye Could have told us yesterday!
"Tired out! " A faded scrawl Pinned upon the ragged shawl -- Nothing else to leave a clue Even of a friend or two, Who might come to fold the hands, Or smooth back the dripping strands Of her tresses, or to wet Them anew with fond regret.
What this Textopian page supports
Tired Out 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, Lyrical, Melancholic, Romantic, Mystery
- Length: 232 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 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.
- Lyrical — The text expresses personal emotions and reflections, typical of lyrical poetry.
- Melancholic — The themes of weariness and loss convey a sense of melancholy.
- Romantic — There are references to love and past happiness, aligning with romantic themes.
Tags
Poetry · Children's Literature · Nursery Rhymes · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · American Literature · 19th Century Literature · Folk Poetry · Rural Life · Country Living · Childhood Innocence