The Gum-Gatherer by Robert Frost
This poem explores the theme of isolation and loneliness through the character of an old man who gathers gum from the ground. He is a solitary figure, disconnected from society, and his actions are driven by a sense of purpose rather than human connection. The poem highlights the tension between the natural world and human existence, with the old man's actions serving as a reminder of the transience of life.
By Robert Frost · First published 1947 · Genre: Poetry, Pastoral, Narrative · 392 words
First lines
There overtook me and drew me in / To his down-hill, early-morning stride, / And set me five miles on my road / Better than if he had had me ride, / A man with a swinging bag for load / And half the bag wound round his hand.
We talked like barking above the din / Of water we walked along beside.
What this Textopian page supports
The Gum-Gatherer is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Frost, dated 1947 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Robert Frost
- Date: 1947 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Pastoral, Narrative, Realism, Regional
- Length: 392 words
- Structure: 1 section, 12 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Gum-Gatherer by Robert Frost
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm, meter, and imagery, characteristic of poetry.
- Pastoral — The themes and setting revolve around rural life and nature, typical of pastoral literature.
- Narrative — The poem tells a story about an encounter with a gum-gatherer, incorporating elements of narrative storytelling.
- Realism — The depiction of the gum-gatherer's life and the natural environment is grounded in realistic detail and everyday experiences.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Symbolism · Imagery · Realism · American Literature · 19th Century · Literary Fiction · Short Story · Folklore · Mythology · Allegory