Poetry Explorer


Classic and Contemporary Poetry


LULLABY by JAMES WHITCOMB RILEY

Poet Analysis

First Line: THE MAPLE STREWS THE EMBERS OF ITS LEAVES
Last Line: TILL YOUR OWN ARE WET ABOVE ME WHEN I DIE.
Subject(s): BABIES; SLEEP; INFANTS;

THE maple strews the embers of its leaves
O'er the laggard swallows nestled 'neath the eaves;
And the moody cricket falters in his cry -- Baby-bye! --
And the lid of night is falling o'er the sky -- Baby-bye! --
The lid of night is falling o'er the sky!

The rose is lying pallid, and the cup
Of the frosted calla-lily folded up;
And the breezes through the garden sob and sigh -- Baby-bye! --
O'er the sleeping blooms of Summer where they lie -- Baby-bye! --
O'er the sleeping blooms of summer where they lie!

Yet, Baby -- O my Baby, for your sake
This heart of mine is ever wide awake,
And my love may never droop a drowsy eye -- Baby-bye! --
Till your own are wet above me when I die -- Baby-bye! --
Till your own are wet above me when I die.



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