When Bessie Died by James Whitcomb Riley
The poem is a lamentation of the death of a cow named Bessie. It describes her life and death in rural America during the late 19th century. The speaker reflects on the passing of time, the changing seasons, and the inevitability of death. The poem's tone is nostalgic and melancholic, with a focus on the cyclical nature of life and death in rural communities.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Elegy, Sentimental · 295 words
First lines
If from your own the dimpled hands had slipped, / And ne'er would nestle in your palm again; / If the white feet into the grave had tripped -- "
When Bessie died -- / We braided the brown hair, and tied / It just as her own little hands / Had fastened back the silken strands / A thousand times -- the crimson bit / Of ribbon woven into it / That she had worn with childish pride -- / Smoothed down the dainty bow -- and cried / When Bessie died.
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When Bessie Died is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1883 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: James Whitcomb Riley
- Date: 1883 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Elegy, Sentimental, Religious, Family
- Length: 295 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Elegy — The poem mourns the death of a young girl, expressing sorrow and loss, which are central themes of an elegy.
- Sentimental — The poem evokes deep emotions and nostalgia, focusing on the personal and emotional impact of Bessie's death.
- Religious — The poem includes themes of prayer and divine presence, reflecting on the spiritual aspects of death.
Tags
Poem · Literary Work · American Literature · 19th Century Literature · Folk Poetry · Rural Life · Animal Death · Grief · Loss · Mourning · Country Setting · Simple Language