The Croaker by Joseph C. Lincoln
The story revolves around a young man who returns to his hometown after being away for several years. He is met with skepticism and suspicion by the townspeople due to his past behavior. The protagonist's attempts to reintegrate into society are hindered by his own flaws and the prejudices of those around him. As he navigates this challenging environment, he must confront his own mistakes and learn to make amends in order to earn back the trust of his community. Through a series of events, the young man undergoes significant personal growth and development, ultimately emerging as a more mature and responsible individual. The narrative explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the complexities of human relationships. It also delves into the consequences of one's actions and the importance of taking responsibility for one's mistakes.
By Joseph C. Lincoln · First published 1905 · Genre: Poetry, Fable, Children's Literature · 400 words
First lines
Once, by the edge of a pleasant pool, Under the bank, where 't was dark and cool, Where bushes over the water hung, And grasses nodded and rushes swung -- Just where the brook flowed out of the bog -- There lived a gouty and mean old Frog, Who'd sit all day in the mud, and soak, And do just nothing but croak and croak.
'Till a Blackbird whistled: "I say, you know, What _is_ the trouble down there below? Are you in sorrow, or pain, or what? " The Frog said: "Mine is a gruesome lot! Nothing but mud, and dirt, and slime, For me to look at the livelong time. 'Tis a dismal world! " so he sadly spoke, And voiced his woes in a mournful croak.
What this Textopian page supports
The Croaker is listed on Textopian as a poem by Joseph C. Lincoln, dated 1905 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Joseph C. Lincoln
- Date: 1905 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Fable, Children's Literature, Humor, Nature Writing
- Length: 400 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Galusha The Magnificent by Joseph C. Lincoln
- The Big Mogul by Joseph C. Lincoln
- The Bullfrog Serenade by Joseph C. Lincoln
- Birds Nesting Time by Joseph C. Lincoln
- The Postmaster by Joseph C. Lincoln
- Sermon Time by Joseph C. Lincoln
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Fable — The narrative features anthropomorphized animals conveying moral lessons, typical of fables.
- Children's Literature — The simple language and themes are suitable for a young audience, common in children's literature.
- Humor — The character's exaggerated traits and situations provide comedic elements throughout the narrative.
Tags
Classic American Literature · Humorous Fiction · Satire · Social Commentary · Small-Town Life · Fisherman's Tale · Maritime Setting · Quirky Characters · Wit and Banter · Wordplay · Regionalism · New England Setting