The Living God
The work explores the relationship between humanity and divinity, emphasizing a God who is actively involved in the world rather than a distant observer. It presents a vision of God as the essence of life, manifesting through nature and human experience. The speaker expresses a yearning for a deeper connection with the divine, seeking clarity and guidance in understanding God's will. The poem reflects on the presence of God in the natural world—the wind, the sea, and the earth—highlighting the beauty and tenderness found in creation. It suggests that humanity is an integral part of God's plan, with strength, love, and wisdom inherent in human actions and relationships. The speaker acknowledges their role within this divine framework, asserting a personal connection to God and a commitment to embodying divine principles in daily life. The work culminates in a call for divine command, reinforcing the idea that individuals are not alone in their spiritual journey, but rather part of a larger, living God. The themes of connection, purpose, and the intertwining of the divine with the mundane are central, inviting readers to reflect on their own relationship with the divine and the world around them.
By Charlotte Perkins Gilman · First published 1890 · Genre: Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Feminist Literature · 544 words
First lines
The Living God. The God that made the world Made it, and stood aside to watch and wait, Arranging a predestined plan To save the erring soul of man- Undying destiny-unswerving fate. I see his hand in the path of life, His law to doom and save, His love divine in the hopes that shine Beyond the sinner's grave, His care that sendeth sun and rain, His wisdom giving rest, His price of sin that we may not win The heaven of the blest.
Not near enough! Not clear enough! O God, come nearer still! I long for thee! Be strong for me! Teach me to know thy will!
What this Textopian page supports
The Living God is listed on Textopian as a short story by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, dated 1890 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Charlotte Perkins Gilman
- Date: 1890 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Feminist Literature, Sociopolitical Fiction
- Length: 544 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Living God by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Living God?
- How does this short story by Charlotte Perkins Gilman fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles
- To The Preacher by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
- Natures Answer by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
- The Separatist And Sacred Things by G. K. Chesterton
- In Church by D. H. Lawrence
- Views Of Life Acton Bell by Charlotte Bronte
- The Return Of The Soul by Robert Hichens
Genres
- Fiction — The title and author suggest that this is a fictitious narrative, as Charlotte Perkins Gilman is known for her fiction writing.
- Philosophical Fiction — Given Gilman's work, the book likely grapples with philosophical or intellectual questions such as humanity's relationship with God.
- Feminist Literature — Gilman's work often incorporates feminist themes and perspectives.
- Sociopolitical Fiction — Gilman often addresses societal and political questions in her work which could be expected from this title as well.
Tags
religion · spirituality · feminism · philosophy · theology · gender roles · society · identity · existentialism · nature · divinity · human experience