Hod Putt by Edgar Lee Masters (1916)
The narrative unfolds through the voice of a deceased character reflecting on his life and choices. He lies in close proximity to the grave of a wealthy man who thrived through trade with Native Americans and later manipulated the bankruptcy system to his advantage. The speaker, in contrast, recounts a life marked by toil and poverty, leading him to commit a desperate act of robbery that resulted in an unintended murder. This act culminated in his trial and execution, framing his own demise as a form of bankruptcy. The speaker's tone is one of resignation and acceptance, as he juxtaposes his fate with that of the prosperous man beside him. Both characters, despite their vastly different paths, find themselves in the same grave, suggesting a commentary on the nature of wealth, morality, and the consequences of one's choices. The work explores themes of justice, the human condition, and the societal structures that govern success and failure. The speaker's reflection serves as a critique of the moral ambiguities surrounding wealth accumulation and the lengths to which individuals will go to escape their circumstances. Ultimately, the piece encapsulates a broader commentary on life, death, and the arbitrary nature of fate, leaving readers to ponder the true cost of ambition and the societal values that shape individual destinies.
By Edgar Lee Masters · First published 1916 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction · 132 words
First lines
Here I lie close to the grave Of Old Bill Piersol, Who grew rich trading with the Indians, and who Afterwards took the bankrupt law And emerged from it richer than ever Myself grown tired of toil and poverty And beholding how Old Bill and other grew in wealth Robbed a traveler one night near Proctor's Grove, Killing him unwittingly while doing so, For which I was tried and hanged.
That was my way of going into bankruptcy.
Now we who took the bankrupt law in our respective ways Sleep peacefully side by side.
What this Textopian page supports
Hod Putt is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edgar Lee Masters, dated 1916 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Edgar Lee Masters
- Date: 1916 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Tragedy, Philosophical Fiction
- Length: 132 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Hod Putt by Edgar Lee Masters
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Literary Fiction — The themes explore complex human experiences, morality, and societal issues.
- Historical Fiction — The narrative references historical elements and societal norms of the past.
- Tragedy — The plot involves themes of death, regret, and the consequences of actions.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Free Verse · Symbolism · Psychological Insight · Social Commentary · Critique of Society · Human Nature · Emotional Depth · Inner Turmoil · Existential Crisis · Mortality