While Cigarettes to Ashes Turn
The poem explores the theme of mortality and the fleeting nature of life. It describes a cigarette being extinguished, symbolizing the end of life's spark. The speaker reflects on how quickly life can pass, leaving behind only memories and ashes. The poem touches on the idea that our time is short and should be cherished.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Romance, Drama, Poetry · 444 words
First lines
I. "He smokes -- and that's enough," says Ma -- / "And cigarettes, at that! " says Pa.
"He must not call again," says she -- / "He _shall_ not call again! " says he.
What this Textopian page supports
While Cigarettes to Ashes Turn is listed on Textopian as a short story 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: Short story
- Author: James Whitcomb Riley
- Date: 1883 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Romance, Drama, Poetry, Domestic Fiction, Psychological Fiction
- Length: 444 words
- Structure: 1 section, 18 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for While Cigarettes to Ashes Turn by James Whitcomb Riley
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Similar titles
- The Song I Never Sing by James Whitcomb Riley
- What Redress by James Whitcomb Riley
- Dearth Sonnets by James Whitcomb Riley
- A Spring Song And A Later by James Whitcomb Riley
- Song Of The New Year by James Whitcomb Riley
- Poor Little Heart by Emily Dickinson
Genres
- Romance — The poem centers on a romantic relationship and the defiance of parental disapproval, highlighting themes of love and attraction.
- Drama — The tension between the protagonist and her parents, as well as the internal conflict regarding her feelings, adds a dramatic element to the narrative.
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter to convey its themes and emotions.
- Domestic Fiction — The setting and conflict revolve around family dynamics and domestic life, focusing on the protagonist's relationship with her parents.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Nature Imagery · Symbolism · Imagery · Figurative Language · Metaphor · Simile · Personification · Seasonal Theme · Mortality