Pennies by Joyce Kilmer (1913)
The poem explores the idea that even small, insignificant objects like pennies can hold great value and significance when considered individually. It highlights the beauty of everyday life and encourages readers to appreciate the world around them. The speaker reflects on the penny's history, its use in commerce, and its eventual fate as a discarded object.
By Joyce Kilmer · First published 1913 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Religious · 245 words
First lines
A few long-hoarded pennies in his hand, Behold him stand; A kilted Hedonist, perplexed and sad. The joy that once he had, The first delight of ownership is fled. He bows his little head. Ah, cruel Time, to kill That splendid thrill!
Then in his tear-dimmed eyes New lights arise. He drops his treasured pennies on the ground, They roll and bound And scattered, rest. Now with what zest He runs to find his errant wealth again!
So unto men Doth God, depriving that He may bestow. Fame, health and money go, But that they may, new found, be newly sweet. Yea, at His feet Sit, waiting us, to their concealment bid, All they, our lovers, whom His Love hath hid.
What this Textopian page supports
Pennies is listed on Textopian as a poem by Joyce Kilmer, dated 1913 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Joyce Kilmer
- Date: 1913 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Religious, Literary, Reflective
- Length: 245 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Pennies by Joyce Kilmer
- 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 Pennies?
- How does this poem by Joyce Kilmer fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Magnolia Flowers by Langston Hughes
- The Text by James Whitcomb Riley
- Them Flowers by James Whitcomb Riley
- Thanksgiving Day by Emily Dickinson
- The Pumpkin by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Sunset by Georgia Douglas Johnson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and imagery typical of poetic expression.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deeper meanings of loss, gain, and the nature of existence, prompting reflection on life's values.
- Religious — The text contains references to divine providence and spiritual insights, indicating a religious undertone.
- Literary — The writing style showcases literary techniques such as metaphor and symbolism, characteristic of literary works.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Imagery · Symbolism · Literary Device · Figurative Language · Metaphor · Simile · Personification · Alliteration · Rhyme · Free Verse