Ever to Be by Ameen Rihani (1913)
The novel explores the complexities of identity and belonging through the story of a young Arab-American man who returns to his ancestral homeland after years abroad. He struggles with cultural dislocation and the tension between his American upbringing and his Arab heritage. As he navigates this internal conflict, he becomes increasingly disillusioned with the social and economic conditions in the region, leading him to question the notion of "ever to be" - a phrase that reflects the idea that one's identity is forever tied to their past and their cultural roots. Through the protagonist's journey, the novel examines themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.
By Ameen Rihani · First published 1913 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Philosophical · 276 words
First lines
My far cry, though no one should echo -- Though no one to listen should stand, I shall dare with my burden the darkness And I shall not retreat from this land; Though I'm hurled 'neath the feet of the millions, Who struggle their places to keep, The sea-nymphs still bathe with my Fancy And the Dryads still sweeten my sleep.
Though I'm crushed, cast away and forgotten -- Though I'm buried in the dust of their cars, I can see through their madness above me -- I can feel the quick pulse of the stars; Though my head be the foot-stool of tyrants, Though my back be a step to their throne, I still dwell with the kings of Orion And I walk with the sun-queen alone.
What this Textopian page supports
Ever to Be is listed on Textopian as a novel by Ameen Rihani, dated 1913 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Ameen Rihani
- Date: 1913 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Philosophical, Lyric, Symbolism
- Length: 276 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Ever to Be by Ameen Rihani
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Ever to Be?
- How does this novel by Ameen Rihani fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is primarily composed of poetic verses, showcasing lyrical language and emotional depth.
- Romanticism — Themes of individualism, nature, and emotional expression align with the characteristics of Romantic literature.
- Philosophical — The exploration of existential themes and the human condition reflects philosophical inquiries.
- Lyric — The personal and introspective nature of the verses emphasizes the lyric genre.
Tags
Philosophical Fiction · Arab-American Literature · Coming-of-Age Story · Self-Discovery · Identity Crisis · Cultural Heritage · Family Dynamics · Social Commentary · Historical Context · Middle Eastern Culture · American Dream · Immigrant Experience