To Edgar Wilson Nye
The poem is a tribute to the American humorist and writer Edgar Wilson Nye. It portrays him as a witty and charming figure who has captured the hearts of his readers with his humorous writings. The speaker praises Nye's ability to make people laugh and smile, and notes that he has become a beloved figure in American literature.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1888 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Friendship · 157 words
First lines
O "William,"-in thy blithe companionship What liberty is mine-what sweet release From clamorous strife, and yet what boisterous peace! Ho! ho! it is thy fancy's finger-tip That dints the dimple now, and kinks the lip That scarce may sing, in all this glad increase Of merriment! So, pray-thee, do not cease To cheer me thus; -for, underneath the quip Of thy droll sorcery, the wrangling fret Of all distress is stilled-no syllable Of sorrow vexeth me-no tear-drops wet My teeming lids save those that leap to tell Thee thou'st a guest that overweepeth, yet Only because thou jokest overwell.
What this Textopian page supports
To Edgar Wilson Nye 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, Humor, Friendship, Sentimental
- Length: 157 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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- Work identity for To Edgar Wilson Nye by James Whitcomb Riley
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Humor — The poem contains elements of humor and jest, as indicated by references to merriment and joking.
- Friendship — The poem is addressed to a friend and celebrates companionship and the joy derived from it.
- Sentimental — The poem expresses deep emotional affection and appreciation for the addressee.
Tags
Poetry Collection · American Literature · Humorous Verse · Satire · Social Commentary · 19th Century Poetry · Regionalism · Midwestern Culture · Folk Humor · Whimsy · Wordplay · Language Play