When I Was A Boy

By Eugene Field

Reflective Poem
    Up in the attic where I slept     When I was a boy, a little boy,     In through the lattice the moonlight crept,     Bringing a tide of dreams that swept     Over the low, red trundle-bed,     Bathing the tangled curly head,     While moonbeams played at hide-and-seek     With the dimples on the sun-browned cheek -     When I was a boy, a little boy!     And, oh! the dreams - the dreams I dreamed!     When I was a boy, a little boy!     For the grace that through the lattice streamed     Over my folded eyelids seemed     To have the gift of prophecy,     And to bring me glimpses of times to be     When manhood's clarion seemed to call -     Ah! that was the sweetest dream of all,     When I was a boy, a little boy!     I'd like to sleep where I used to sleep     When I was a boy, a little boy!     For in at the lattice the moon would peep,     Bringing her tide of dreams to sweep     The crosses and griefs of the years away     From the heart that is weary and faint to-day;     And those dreams should give me back again     A peace I have never known since then -     When I was a boy, a little boy!

Share & Analyze This Poem

Spread the beauty of poetry or dive deeper into analysis

Analyze This Poem

Discover the literary devices, structure, and deeper meaning

Copy to Clipboard

Save this poem for personal use or sharing offline

Share the Love of Poetry
More Poems
More Reflective Poems
Daily Poem

Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
In this emotive poem, the poet vividly recalls the innocence and dream-laden days of his childhood, painting a vivid picture of nostalgia and yearning for simpler times. The recurring phrase, "When I was a boy, a little boy," serves as a powerful refrain, emphasizing the distance between the carefree boyhood and the burdensome present state of the speaker.

The poem’s primary theme is the contrast between the innocence and freedom of childhood and the struggles and complexities of adult life. The poet weaves a tapestry of idyllic childhood memories, using the moonlight's recurring motif as a symbol of dreams, hope, and innocence. The moonlight, sneaking through the lattice, also signifies the intrusion of future possibilities and dreams into the boy's safe and comfortable world. The poet's longing to return to his boyhood sleep, when the moonlight would sweep away the "crosses and griefs of the years," reflects a profound sense of loss and longing for peace and simplicity. The poem’s structure, divided into three stanzas, mirrors the past, future, and present, successfully encapsulating the speaker's entire life journey. The language is simple yet evocative, making it accessible and relatable to a broad audience.

Understanding Reflective Poetry

Reflective poetry is a form of verse that explores the thoughts, emotions, and meditations of the poet. It often delves into personal experiences, memories, and philosophical musings, offering a window into the poet's inner world.

Reflective poems are characterized by their introspective nature, allowing readers to connect with the poet’s contemplations on life, existence, and the human condition. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Personal Reflection: These poems often center on the poet's own thoughts and feelings, offering a deep dive into their emotional or intellectual state.
  • Philosophical Musings: Reflective poetry frequently addresses larger existential questions, providing a space for the poet to ponder life’s meaning, purpose, and the nature of reality.
  • Imagery and Symbolism: Poets use vivid imagery and rich symbolism to convey their reflections, often drawing on nature, art, or personal experiences to express complex ideas.
  • Quiet and Contemplative Tone: Reflective poems typically have a calm, meditative tone, inviting readers to pause and reflect alongside the poet.

Reflective poetry provides a unique avenue for exploring the poet’s inner world, inviting readers to engage in their own reflections as they journey through the verses.