Up and down Old Brandywine
The poem describes a nostalgic journey along the Brandywine River, evoking memories of childhood and the passing of time. The speaker reflects on the river's tranquil beauty and the changing seasons, symbolizing the fleeting nature of life. The poem explores themes of nostalgia, mortality, and the human experience.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1871 · Genre: Poetry, Nostalgia, Pastoral · 1,009 words
First lines
Up and down old Brandywine, In the days 'at's past and gone -- With a dad-burn hook-and line And a saplin' pole -- swawn!
I've had more fun, to the square Inch, than ever ANYwhere!
What this Textopian page supports
Up and down Old Brandywine is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1871 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: 1871 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Nostalgia, Pastoral, Regional, Sentimental
- Length: 1,009 words
- Structure: 1 section, 26 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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- Work identity for Up and down Old Brandywine by James Whitcomb Riley
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Discussion starters
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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 longing for the past and childhood memories.
- Pastoral — The setting and imagery focus on rural landscapes and nature.
- Regional — The work emphasizes a specific geographic location and its cultural aspects.
Tags
Poetry · Nostalgia · Childhood · Memory · Imagination · Fantasy · Rural · American · Literary · Symbolism · Nature · Seasonal