Tithonus by Alice Meynell (1892)

Name: Tithonus
Author: Alice Meynell

"TITHONUS" is a poem written by Alice Meynell in 1896. The poem tells the story of Tithonus, a mortal who was granted immortality by the goddess Eos. However, Tithonus's voice and strength fade with time, leaving him a mere shadow of his former self. The poem explores themes of aging, loss, and the fleeting nature of life. Meynell's use of imagery and symbolism creates a haunting and introspective atmosphere, inviting the reader to contemplate the passage of time and the inevitability of decline.

By Alice Meynell · First published 1892 · Genre: Poetry, Mythology, Classics · 2,161 words

First lines

"It was resolved," said the morning paper, "to colour the borders of the panels and other spaces of Portland stone with arabesques and other patterns, but that no paint should be used, as paint would need renewing from time to time. The colours, therefore," -- and here is the passage to be noted -- "are all mixed with wax liquefied with petroleum; and the wax surface sets as hard as marble. The wax is left time to form an imperishable surface of ornament, which would have to be cut out of the stone with a chisel if it was desired to remove it. Not, apparently, that a new surface is formed which, by much violence and perseverance, could, years hence, be chipped off again; but that the "ornament" is driven in and incorporate, burnt in and absorbed, so that there is nothing possible to cut away by any industry. In this humorous form of ornament we are beforehand with Posterity. Posterity is baffled.

What this Textopian page supports

Tithonus is listed on Textopian as an essay by Alice Meynell, dated 1892 CE.

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

Work type: Essay
Author: Alice Meynell
Date: 1892 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Mythology, Classics
Length: 2,161 words
Structure: 1 section, 15 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering Tithonus?
How does this essay by Alice Meynell fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — Tither or Tithon was a handsome mortal with whom Eos, the goddess of dawn, fell in love and carried him off to live with her on Mount Olympus. This poem was written by Alice Meynell about the myth and is therefore classified as poetry.
Mythology — The plot of the poem is based on Greek mythology, specifically the myth of Tithonus and Eos.
Classics — The poem, as it references and is inspired by Greek mythology, can be considered a classic work.