When Evening Shadows Fall
The poem explores the theme of mortality and the passing of time. It describes a scene where evening shadows fall, symbolizing the end of day and the approach of night. The speaker reflects on the fleeting nature of life and how it slips away like sand between fingers. The poem also touches on the idea that even in death, there is a sense of peace and tranquility, as the soul finds rest from the struggles of life.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Reflective · 199 words
First lines
When evening shadows fall, She hangs her cares away Like empty garments on the wall That hides her from the day; And while old memories throng, And vanished voices call, She lifts her grateful heart in song When evening shadows fall.
Her weary hands forget The burdens of the day.
The weight of sorrow and regret In music rolls away; And from the day's dull tomb, That holds her in its thrall, Her soul springs up in lily bloom When evening shadows fall.
O weary heart and hand, Go bravely to the strife -- No victory is half so grand As that which conquers life!
What this Textopian page supports
When Evening Shadows Fall 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, Inspirational, Reflective, Romanticism
- Length: 199 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- In The Evening by James Whitcomb Riley
- At Dusk by James Whitcomb Riley
- In The Afternoon by James Whitcomb Riley
- The Evening Company by James Whitcomb Riley
- Becalmed by James Whitcomb Riley
- A Noon Lull by James Whitcomb Riley
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Inspirational — Themes of overcoming life's struggles and finding peace and gratitude are central to the work.
- Reflective — The text explores introspection and contemplation, particularly in the context of evening and memory.
- Romanticism — The emphasis on nature, emotion, and individual experience aligns with Romantic literary themes.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Nature · Evening · Sunset · Reflection · Meditation · Peaceful · Serene · Quiet · Solitude