William Brown
The story revolves around a young boy's adventures and misadventures as he navigates the challenges of growing up. The narrative explores themes of childhood innocence, resilience, and the importance of imagination in shaping one's worldview. Through William Brown's experiences, the reader gains insight into the complexities of childhood development and the ways in which it prepares individuals for adulthood.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Heroic, Tragedy · 259 words
First lines
"He bore the name of William Brown" -- His name, at least, did not go down With him that day He went the way Of certain death where duty lay.
He looked his fate full in the face -- He saw his watery resting-place Undaunted, and With firmer hand Held others' hopes in sure command. --
The hopes of full three hundred lives -- Aye, babes unborn, and promised wives! "The odds are dread," He must have said, "Here, God, is one poor life instead. "
No time for praying overmuch -- No time for tears, or woman's touch Of tenderness, Or child's caress -- His last "God bless them! " stopped at "bless" --
What this Textopian page supports
William Brown 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: Poetry, Heroic, Tragedy, Historical, Inspirational
- Length: 259 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for William Brown 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
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering William Brown?
- How does this short story by James Whitcomb Riley fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Heroic — The narrative centers on the selfless and courageous actions of an individual facing certain death.
- Tragedy — The theme involves a noble sacrifice leading to the protagonist's demise.
- Historical — The poem reflects on a past event with a focus on the actions and legacy of a specific individual.
Tags
Children's Literature · Poetry Collection · American Literature · 19th Century Literature · Juvenile Fiction · Coming of Age · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Nostalgia · Autobiographical Elements · Memoir