A Better Woe by Ameen Rihani (1911)
The novel explores the complexities of human relationships and the search for meaning in a post-World War I world. It follows the story of a young man who returns to his homeland after serving in the war, only to find that his experiences have left him disillusioned with the societal norms and expectations of his community. As he navigates his relationships with family and friends, he grapples with feelings of guilt, shame, and disconnection. Through his struggles, the novel raises questions about the nature of identity, morality, and the human condition. The narrative is characterized by a sense of introspection and philosophical inquiry, as the protagonist seeks to understand himself and his place in the world. The novel's themes are both deeply personal and universally relatable, making it a powerful exploration of the human experience.
By Ameen Rihani · First published 1911 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Philosophical · 143 words
First lines
Of all my desert days Thou art the only one Upon whose sandy face A strip of pleasure's foliage trembling grows; Of all the winding ways.
Which with my rapture shone But one can I retrace, And there the barren breast of beauty glows.
Of all the dread desires, That beat within me still, One shakes the sacred fear And hurls me into the arms of her below; But oh, how life suspires -- How soon after the thrill Of joy I shudder, I hear My murmuring soul pine for a better woe.
What this Textopian page supports
A Better Woe is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ameen Rihani, dated 1911 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Ameen Rihani
- Date: 1911 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Philosophical, Lyric, Symbolism
- Length: 143 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for A Better Woe by Ameen Rihani
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is characterized by its lyrical and expressive language, focusing on emotional depth and aesthetic beauty.
- Romanticism — Themes of love, desire, and the exploration of inner emotions align with the principles of Romantic literature.
- Philosophical — The text reflects on existential themes and the nature of joy and suffering, prompting deeper contemplation.
- Lyric — The personal and introspective nature of the verses emphasizes individual experience and emotion.
Tags
Philosophical Fiction · Arab-American Literature · Existentialism · Psychological Insight · Social Commentary · Cultural Critique · Identity Crisis · Coming of Age · Self-Discovery · Morality Tale · Fate vs Free Will · Human Condition