When we First Played "Show"
The poem describes a childhood game where children take turns showing off their skills and abilities, with the last one standing being declared the winner. The speaker reflects on how this game was a precursor to adulthood, where individuals must continually prove themselves in order to succeed.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1880 · Genre: Poetry, Nostalgia, Children's Literature · 449 words
First lines
Wasn't it a good time, Long Time Ago -- When we all were little tads And first played "Show"! -- When every newer day Wore as bright a glow As the ones we laughed away -- Long Time Ago!
Calf was in the back-lot; Clover in the red; Bluebird in the pear-tree; Pigeons on the shed; Tom a-chargin' twenty pins At the barn; and Dan Spraddled out just like "The 'Injarubber'-Man!"
What this Textopian page supports
When we First Played "Show" is listed on Textopian as a short story by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1880 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: James Whitcomb Riley
- Date: 1880 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Nostalgia, Children's Literature, Humor, American Literature
- Length: 449 words
- Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for When we First Played "Show" 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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Similar titles
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- The Old Home Folks by James Whitcomb Riley
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- The Plaint Human by James Whitcomb Riley
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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 reminiscing about childhood and the past, evoking a sense of nostalgia.
- Children's Literature — The content focuses on childhood experiences and play, appealing to themes common in children's literature.
- Humor — The playful and lighthearted depiction of childhood antics suggests an element of humor.
Tags
Nostalgia · Poetry · Childhood Memories · Literary Classic · American Literature · 19th Century · Autobiographical · Coming of Age · Friendship · Youthful Innocence · Playfulness · Imagination