Man's Working Day

Name: Man's Working Day
Author: Charles Kingsley

The work explores the concept of time and the importance of fulfilling one's purpose within the allotted hours of life. It begins with a biblical reference, emphasizing that life is finite, akin to a day with twelve hours designated for work. The author argues that individuals must recognize their responsibilities and the divine guidance available to them. The text contrasts the clarity of walking in the light of faith with the confusion of walking in darkness, underscoring the necessity of seeking divine wisdom to navigate life's challenges. The narrative illustrates that every person has a specific role to play, and neglecting this duty leads to stumbling through life. The author draws parallels between physical and spiritual light, asserting that true understanding comes from God. The work encourages readers to acknowledge their mortality and the urgency of completing their tasks before the "night" of death arrives, during which no further work can be done. Ultimately, it calls for a proactive approach to life, urging individuals to engage in good works and seek divine assistance in their endeavors. The message is one of accountability, purpose, and the assurance that faith provides clarity and direction in fulfilling one's life mission.

By Charles Kingsley · First published 1854 · Genre: Social Commentary, Historical Fiction, Realism · 2,958 words

First lines

JOHN, xi. 9, 10. "Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man walk in the night he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. "

THIS was our blessed Lord's answer to His disciples when they said to Him, "Master, the Jews of late tried to stone Thee, and goest Thou among them again? " And "Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man walk in the night he stumbleth, because there is no light in him."

What this Textopian page supports

Man's Working Day is listed on Textopian as a speech by Charles Kingsley, dated 1854 CE.

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

Work type: Speech
Author: Charles Kingsley
Date: 1854 CE
Language: English
Genres: Social Commentary, Historical Fiction, Realism, Literary Fiction
Length: 2,958 words
Structure: 1 section, 24 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Man's Working Day by Charles Kingsley
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 Man's Working Day?
How does this speech by Charles Kingsley fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Social Commentary first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Social Commentary — Charles Kingsley often wrote about the working classes and issues connected with their lives. This book likely offers critique on societal structure, labor and class issues, forming the basis for it being a social commentary.
Historical Fiction — Kingsley's work often depicts times past, providing historical context to the era of labor and industrial development. This makes the book fall into the genre of Historical fiction.
Realism — Considering Kingsley's writing style and themes, his portrayal of man's working day would likely be realistic and pragmatic, for depicting the everyday life of working class, aligning to the Realism genre.
Literary Fiction — Kingsley's works are known for their literary aesthetics, attention to detail, and narrative depth. Considering these features, Literary Fiction could be deemed as an associated genre.