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The Titmouse

A poem retold from Ralph Waldo Emerson

Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882) was an American essayist, poet and philosopher, a central figure in the Transcendentalist movement. 'The Titmouse' was published in his 1847 collection Poems. In this narrative poem, Emerson recounts a genuine experience: lost in frozen woods and near surrender, he is brought back to life by the cheerful defiance of a small grey bird. The encounter becomes a meditation on courage, humility and the sources of true strength. Emerson's work is worth a young reader's time because it shows how attention to the natural world can teach us about our own character—and because it argues that virtue has nothing to do with size. This text reflects its era.

Band

Blue · Independent readers, confidentTypical starting range: ages 12–14

Length

long · about 1032 words in 5 sections · 2 pictures

Source

Poems, Ralph Waldo Emerson

First published

see the About page in the reader

Regions

Canada · United States

Included formats

• · Web reader and PDF
• · EPUB for e-readers
• · Home-print sheet
• · Folded booklet
• · Binder edition (8.5 × 11)
• · Worksheet
• · Quick Check (10 questions) with answer key
• · Read-aloud script
• · Teacher’s Edition (members)

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