Farm Legends

by Will Carleton

Farm Legends is a collection of short stories and poems written by American author Will Carleton. The book was first published in 1871 and has since become a classic in American literature. The stories and poems in Farm Legends are centered around life on the farm, and the struggles and joys that come with it. Carleton's writing is known for its sentimental and moralistic tone, and each piece in this collection reflects these themes. Some of the stories and poems are humorous, while others are more serious and reflective. Throughout the book, Carleton explores themes of hard work, perseverance, family, and the importance of the natural world. Farm Legends is a timeless and heartwarming collection that continues to be enjoyed by readers of all ages.1876. Illustrated. Collection of verse from the American poet who touched with the glamour of poetry the simple and monotonous events of daily life. This edition contains some of his most popular works including Rifts in the Cloud, The Good of the Future and The Joys that are Left.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

132 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2008

About the author

William McKendree Carleton was an American poet. Carleton's poems were most often about his rural life.

Reviews

[Lana Lynne Lynne]

I discovered Will Carleton by accident. A bookshelf of vintage books beckoned me while strumming through an antique store. The gold-gilded print on the cover, the substantial feel of the well-bound 1887 volume of FARM LEGENDS by Will Carleton docked it in my hands, but when I opened the cover, I set sail. The delightful sea of verse and ballads tickled my mind and heart upon cresting the first wave "The Schoolmaster's Guests"--laughter bubbled and true delight found rebirth within my heart. Needless to say, the book came home with me. I've read it like an enjoyable stroll, discovering the heart of a prolific poet from the late 1800s. He writes in the vernacular of the common man. Even though the poet had to wait to return to and finish college after his brother returned from the Civil War, his time working on the farm and conversing with his fellowman made him, in many ways, more relatable than those writing with a more academic approach. The vast knowledge he received in college is shown in the subjects he incorporates into several of his poems. He knew literature and history well, but it is his astute study of human nature and his love for God giving his work a special spark I haven't found in any other poets' works.

After finishing this volume, I immediately checked for his other works. I contacted a wonderful used bookstore near the antique store where I found this vintage copy, but to no avail. However, I have found a few of his other works at online outlets. The feel of the thick paper, heavy cover, and wonderful illustrations added to the reading experience. I'd prefer to read his other works within the same array. There were 187 pages in this book, however, the one shown on Goodreads only shows 136.
I found a free ebook copy of his first work, FARM BALLADS, on Amazon and downloaded it. I am delighting it it, but I do want to get a vintage copy. Frayed bindings and scuffs aren't a bother to me. You'll understand once you read Will Carleton's stories within verse.
Treat yourself! Start with the free ebooks of his work, but I'll bet you will want his works on your shelves. All generations will delight in his timeless talent and verse.

[Rob Roy]

This volume of Will Carton’s poems is not as good as his Farm Ballads, but here and there his brilliance shines through. I even sent one stanza about college reminisces to my old school alumni coordinator. His style is of the 19th century, but his humor is timeless as is his insight into the common man.