A Holy War by C.J. Dennis (1935)

Name: A Holy War
Author: C.J. Dennis

The narrative follows a protagonist who encounters a well-meaning but somewhat naive clergyman, who seeks his assistance in rescuing a woman named Rose from the clutches of a deceitful man named Spike Wegg. The clergyman believes that the protagonist's local knowledge and strength are essential to thwarting Spike's manipulative schemes, which threaten Rose's dignity and well-being. The protagonist is initially reluctant, citing his commitment to a peaceful life and the potential consequences of engaging in violence, especially considering his wife’s likely disapproval. However, the clergyman's earnestness and the gravity of Rose's situation stir something within him, igniting a long-buried desire for action and adventure. He reflects on his past experiences in physical confrontations, feeling the allure of a return to that life. As the clergyman passionately describes Rose's plight, the protagonist grapples with his internal conflict between his peaceful existence and the call to defend a vulnerable woman. Ultimately, he decides to join the clergyman on a mission to confront Spike, framing it as a noble cause rather than mere brawling. The protagonist reassures himself that this endeavor is sanctioned by the Church, thus justifying his actions. The story explores themes of morality, the struggle between pacifism and the instinct to protect, and the complexities of human relationships. The protagonist's journey is not just a physical one but also a moral reckoning, as he navigates the implications of his choices and the potential for violence in the name of righteousness. The narrative blends humor with serious undertones, reflecting on the absurdities of life and the often blurry line between good and evil.

By C.J. Dennis · First published 1935 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Drama · 1,877 words

First lines

"Young friend! ". I tries to duck, but miss the bus. 'E sees me first, an' 'as me by the 'and. "Young friend! " 'e sez; an' starts to make a fuss At meetin' me. "Why, this," 'e sez, "is grand! Events is workin' better than I planned. It's Providence that I should meet you thus. You're jist the man," 'e sez, "to make a stand, An' strive for us.

"Young friend," 'e sez, "allow me to explain But wot 'e 'as to say too well I knows. I got the stren'th uv it in Spadgers Lane Not 'arf an hour before'and, when I goes To see if I could pick up news uv Rose, After that dentist let me off the chain. ("Painless," 'e's labelled. So 'e is, I s'pose. I 'ad the pain.)

What this Textopian page supports

A Holy War is listed on Textopian as a short story by C.J. Dennis, dated 1935 CE.

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

Work type: Short story
Author: C.J. Dennis
Date: 1935 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Satire, Drama, Comedy, Social Commentary
Length: 1,877 words
Structure: 1 section, 17 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
Satire — The text critiques social issues and human behavior through humor and irony, particularly in the context of religion and morality.
Drama — The narrative involves conflict and character interactions that drive the plot, typical of dramatic literature.
Comedy — The humorous tone and situations, including the protagonist's internal conflict, align with comedic elements.