Two Sonnets to the June-Bug
The poem is a tribute to the June bug's beauty and significance in nature. It describes the insect's appearance, its habits, and its role in the ecosystem. The speaker expresses admiration for the June bug's unique characteristics and its ability to thrive in the summer months. The tone is one of appreciation and wonder.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Nature · 360 words
First lines
I. You make me jes' a little nervouser / Than any dog-gone bug I ever see! / And you know night's the time to pester me -- / When any tetch at all 'll rub the fur / Of all my patience back'ards! You're the myrrh / And ruburb of my life! A bumblebee / Cain't hold a candle to you; and a he / Bald hornet, with a laminated spur / In his hip pocket, daresent even cheep / When you're around! And, dern ye! you have made / Me lose whole ricks and stacks and piles of sleep, -- / And many of a livelong night I've laid / And never shut an eye, hearin' you keep / Up that eternal buzzin' serenade!
What this Textopian page supports
Two Sonnets to the June-Bug 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, Humor, Nature, Domestic
- Length: 360 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for Two Sonnets to the June-Bug by James Whitcomb Riley
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in the form of sonnets, a traditional poetic form, and employs rhyme and meter.
- Humor — The tone is light-hearted and comedic, using exaggerated descriptions and situations for humorous effect.
- Nature — The subject matter revolves around an insect, specifically a June-bug, and its interaction with the narrator.
- Domestic — The setting and actions described take place in a domestic environment, involving household items and nighttime disturbances.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century Poetry · Nature Imagery · Insect Imagery · Sonnets · Formal Verse · Free Verse · Whimsy · Humor · Satire · Summer