I remember when I used to ask my parents for a bedtime story when I was a little girl. We didn't have very many books around our house and story time was pretty rare. When I did hear a story it was always a poem from James Whitcomb Riley.
When we would travel to my aunt's or grandmother's houses, they would quote some of the same stories and poems. I grew up thinking that everyone knew these cute poems.
While attending BYU, I was given an assignment to recite a poem in front of class, I chose Little Orphan Annie by James Whitcomb Riley. I had heard it all of my life and even knew how to do some fun voices for it.
Another personal favorite poem is, "The Bear Story." I have tried to memorize this, but I have not quite succeeded.
James Whitcomb Riley wrote funny poems and stories, he also wrote sad poems. His poetry reflected the things that he faced throughout life.
When my own children were small, I would quote or read different poems to them to help pass on this poetry tradition.
A few years ago, Rachael bought me an antique James Whitcomb Riley poetry book for Christmas. She even has one for herself. The tradition continues!
3 comments:
Thanks for posting these mememories. I love his poetry. He used the people around him for inspiration. You can almost feel their presence when you read his poetry.
I grew up with those poems too. What a fun gift.
Aw, I love his poetry too. It reminds me of you! <3
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