Old Nursery by John Gould Fletcher
The poem explores the theme of nostalgia and the passing of time through a nostalgic portrayal of an old nursery. The speaker reflects on the memories associated with the space, evoking a sense of longing for a bygone era. The imagery used is vivid and detailed, drawing the reader into the world of childhood innocence and simplicity.
By John Gould Fletcher · First published 1928 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Symbolism · 85 words
First lines
In the tired face of the mirror There is a blue curtain reflected.
If I could lift the reflection, Peer a little beyond, I would see A boy crying Because his sister is ill in another room And he has no one to play with: A boy listlessly scattering building blocks, And crying, Because no one will build for him the palace of Fairy Morgana.
I cannot lift the curtain: It is stiff and frozen.
What this Textopian page supports
Old Nursery is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Gould Fletcher, dated 1928 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: John Gould Fletcher
- Date: 1928 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Symbolism, Modernism
- Length: 85 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Old Nursery by John Gould Fletcher
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- The Endless Lament by John Gould Fletcher
- Where Once The Waters Of Your Face by Dylan Thomas
- The Child On The Cliffs by Edward Thomas
- When All My Five And Country Senses by Dylan Thomas
- On An Empty House by Hilaire Belloc
- The Well by John Gould Fletcher
Genres
- Poetry — The work employs lyrical language and imagery, characteristic of poetic expression.
- Literary Fiction — The themes of childhood, isolation, and emotional depth align with the conventions of literary fiction.
- Symbolism — The use of symbols, such as the blue curtain and building blocks, conveys deeper meanings and emotions.
- Modernism — The introspective and fragmented style reflects modernist tendencies in literature.
Tags
Nostalgia · Poetry · Southern Gothic · Regionalism · Autobiographical · Coming of Age · Memory · Family History · Childhood · Literary Fiction · Symbolism · Imagery