William Mckinley. Canton, Ohio, September 30, 19
The poem describes a scene where William McKinley's funeral procession passes through Canton, Ohio on September 30, 1907. The speaker reflects on the nation's grief and the passing of an era with McKinley's death. The poem highlights the sense of loss and mourning that pervades the country as it says goodbye to its fallen leader.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1896 · Genre: Poetry, Historical, Biographical · 476 words
First lines
He said: "It is God's way: His will, not ours be done. " And o'er our land a shadow lay That darkened all the sun. The voice of jubilee That gladdened all the air, Fell sudden to a quavering key Of suppliance and prayer.
He was our chief -- our guide -- Sprung of our common Earth, From youth's long struggle proved and tried To manhood's highest worth: Through toil, he knew all needs Of all his toiling kind -- The favored striver who succeeds -- The one who falls behind.
What this Textopian page supports
William Mckinley. Canton, Ohio, September 30, 1907 is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1896 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: 1896 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Historical, Biographical, Patriotic, Inspirational
- Length: 476 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for William Mckinley. Canton, Ohio, September 30, 1907 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
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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.
- Historical — The content reflects on historical events and figures, specifically focusing on a past U.S. president.
- Biographical — The poem centers on the life and character of a specific individual, providing insights into his personal and public life.
- Patriotic — Themes of national pride and reverence for the country are prominent throughout the text.
Tags
Biography · Poetry · American Literature · Historical Figure · President · Politics · Ohio · Canton · Autobiographical · Eulogy · Tribute · Nostalgia