We are not Always Glad when we Smile

We are not Always Glad when we Smile

Series: The Complete Works of James Whitcomb Riley, Volume I

James Whitcomb Riley
Author's portrait: James Whitcomb Riley

The poem explores the idea that a smile can be a facade, hiding underlying emotions of sadness and pain. It suggests that people often wear a mask of happiness to conceal their true feelings, which may be rooted in disappointment or disillusionment with life. The speaker argues that this forced smile is not genuine and can lead to emotional numbness.

~1883 CE
Available in: English
Moderate
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