The Retreat by Alice Meynell (1901)

Name: The Retreat
Author: Alice Meynell

The Retreat by Alice Meynell is a novella that explores the themes of isolation, loneliness, and the human desire for connection. The story follows a young woman named Emily who retreats to a remote cottage in the countryside after a painful breakup with her fiancé. As she spends time alone in the cottage, Emily begins to question her own identity and purpose in life. She becomes increasingly fixated on the idea of escape and finds solace in the natural world around her. However, despite her efforts to disconnect from society, Emily is unable to shake off the feeling of loneliness and isolation. Throughout the novella, Meynell explores the tension between the desire for solitude and the need for human connection. Emily's retreat becomes a metaphor for the human need for escape and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. The Retreat is a thought-provoking and deeply moving work that delves into the complexities of the human experience.

By Alice Meynell · First published 1901 · Genre: Poetry, Religious literature, Philosophy · 291 words

First lines

HAPPY those early days when I

Shined in my angel infancy!

Before I understood this place

Appointed for my second race,

What this Textopian page supports

The Retreat is listed on Textopian as a poem by Alice Meynell, dated 1901 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Alice Meynell
Date: 1901 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Religious literature, Philosophy
Length: 291 words
Structure: 1 section, 12 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — Alice Meynell's 'The Retreat' is a known work of poetry and the narrative form, symbolism, vivid imagery, and rhythmic patterns characteristic of this genre are present in the book.
Religious literature — Many elements within 'The Retreat' reflect on spiritual introspection and contemplation, often considered central themes of religious literature.
Philosophy — The work offers philosophical insights and often indulges in the contemplation of nature and spirituality.