‘Out to Old Aunt Mary’s’ by James Whitcomb Riley juxtaposes memories of carefree youth with the passage of time, underlying the lasting significance of the memories
James Whitcomb Riley was born in Greenfield, Indiana, and his background may have had a profound effect on his works. Themes of childhood recollections, rural landscapes, as well as sentimental nostalgia characterize his works. 'Out to Old Aunt Mary's,' one of Riley’s best works, is also affected by his distinctive themes, as it praises childhood simple joys and nostalgic recollections.
Wasn't it pleasant, O brother mine,
In those old days of the lost sunshine
Of youth—when the Saturday's chores were through,
‘Knee-Deep In June’ by James Whitcomb Riley is a pastoral poem advocating nature’s joys amid the luscious warmth of June as a must-do escape from the daily humdrum.
With its emphasis on nature and the simple nourishing joys it bestows on living creatures, 'Knee-Deep in June' by Riley is typical of his literary work. James Whitcomb Riley was an American poet who was known as the "Hoosier Poet" for his writings about Indiana and its inhabitants. He is well-known for painting rural Midwest life and the basic pleasures of existence.
Tell you what I like the best --
'Long about knee-deep in June,
'Bout the time strawberries melts
On the vine, -- some afternoon
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