When we Three Meet
The poem describes a reunion of three old friends who have been separated for many years. They meet again and reminisce about their past experiences, sharing stories and laughter. The speaker reflects on the passing of time and how it has affected their lives, but ultimately concludes that some friendships remain strong despite distance and time. The tone is nostalgic and sentimental, with a focus on the enduring power of friendship. The poem explores themes of memory, loss, and the human need for connection.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Friendship, Nostalgia · 148 words
First lines
When we three meet? Ah! friend of mine Whose verses well and flow as wine, -- My thirsting fancy thou dost fill With draughts delicious, sweeter still Since tasted by those lips of thine.
I pledge thee, through the chill sunshine Of autumn, with a warmth divine, Thrilled through as only I shall thrill When we three meet.
I pledge thee, if we fast or dine, We yet shall loosen, line by line, Old ballads, and the blither trill Of our-time singers -- for there will Be with us all the Muses nine When we three meet.
What this Textopian page supports
When we Three Meet 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, Friendship, Nostalgia, Literary, Autumn
- Length: 148 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for When we Three Meet 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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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Friendship — The theme revolves around the camaraderie and shared experiences of friends.
- Nostalgia — The text evokes a longing for past gatherings and shared moments.
- Literary — The work references classical elements like the Muses, indicating a literary focus.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Friendship · Nostalgia · Childhood Memories · Literary Classic · Symbolism · Imagery · Figurative Language · Tone · Mood