Cerda by A.C. Benson (1902)
"Cerda" is a novella written by A.C. Benson, first published in 1903. The story follows the life of a young woman named Cerda, who lives a mundane and isolated existence in rural England. Despite her loveless marriage and lack of social interaction, Cerda finds solace in her garden, where she nurtures various plants and flowers. As the narrative progresses, it becomes clear that Cerda's happiness is rooted in her connection with nature, rather than any personal fulfillment. Her obsession with her garden leads to a sense of detachment from the world around her, and she becomes increasingly reclusive. Through Benson's vivid descriptions of the English countryside and Cerda's introspective musings, the novella explores themes of loneliness, isolation, and the human need for connection. Despite its melancholic tone, "Cerda" is a poignant and thought-provoking work that challenges readers to reflect on their own relationships with the natural world and the people in their lives.
By A.C. Benson · First published 1902 · Genre: Biography, History, Nonfiction · 3,161 words
First lines
There was once a city of Gaul named Ilitro, a heathen city. It was encircled by a strong wall, with towers and a moat. There was a drawbridge, for carts to enter the city, which was drawn up at night, for the country was often disturbed by warlike bands; beside the great drawbridge was a little bridge, which could be lowered and drawn up as well; the great bridge was hauled up at sundown, and no cart might enter the city after that time; but the little bridge could be lowered till midnight for a traveller, if he was honest.
What this Textopian page supports
Cerda is listed on Textopian as a short story by A.C. Benson, dated 1902 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: A.C. Benson
- Date: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Biography, History, Nonfiction
- Length: 3,161 words
- Structure: 1 section, 23 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Cerda by A.C. Benson
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Cerda?
- How does this short story by A.C. Benson fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Biography first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Brother Robert by A. C. Benson
- The Hill Of Trouble by A. C. Benson
- The Red Camp by A. C. Benson
- The Isles Of Sunset by A. C. Benson
- Linus by A. C. Benson
- The Light Of The Body by A. C. Benson
Genres
- Biography — The book is a biographical account of Ildefonso Cerdà, highlighting his life, career and achievements.
- History — The book contains historical context and references pertaining to the era in which Cerdà lived and worked.
- Nonfiction — The book is based on real events, people and places, thus placing it in the nonfiction genre.
Tags
bridge · came · cerda · child · city · could · day · face · father · great · indeed · knew