Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, MY OLD FRIEND, by JAMES WHITCOMB RILEY


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

MY OLD FRIEND, by                 Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography
First Line: You've a manner all so mellow,
Last Line: My old friend.
Alternate Author Name(s): Johnson Of Boone, Benj. F.
Subject(s): Friendship; Memory; Time; Youth


YOU'VE a manner all so mellow,
My old friend,
That it cheers and warms a fellow,
My old friend,
Just to meet and greet you, and
Feel the pressure of a hand
That one may understand,
My old friend.

Though dimmed in youthful splendor,
My old friend,
Your smiles are still as tender,
My old friend,
And your eyes as true a blue
As your childhood ever knew,
And your laugh as merry, too,

For though your hair is faded,
My old friend,
And your step a trifle jaded,
My old friend,
Old Time, with all his lures
In the trophies he secures,
Leaves young that heart of yours,
My old friend.

And so it is you cheer me,
My old friend,
For to know you and be near you,
My old friend,
Makes my hopes of clearer light,
And my faith of surer sight,
And my soul a purer white,
My old friend.





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