Jeduthan Hawley by Edgar Lee Masters

Name: Jeduthan Hawley
Author: Edgar Lee Masters

The narrative unfolds through the reflections of a man who operates a funeral home, contemplating the nature of life and death. He describes his nightly routine, responding to the calls of the deceased and preparing for their final journeys. The protagonist observes the connections between the living and the dead, noting how pairs of individuals often share their fates, suggesting a deeper bond that transcends life. As he recalls various couples, he highlights the intertwining of their stories, revealing the social fabric of the community. Each pairing represents not only romantic relationships but also friendships and rivalries, illustrating the complexity of human connections. The protagonist's own pairing with Daisy Fraser stands out, hinting at a significant relationship that shapes his understanding of love and loss. The work delves into themes of mortality, companionship, and the inevitability of death. The protagonist's solemnity reflects a profound awareness of life's transience, as he grapples with the emotional weight of his profession. The act of preparing the deceased becomes a metaphor for the living's struggle to find meaning in their relationships and experiences. Through vivid imagery and poignant observations, the narrative captures the essence of small-town life, where every individual has a story that intertwines with others. The protagonist's reflections serve as a reminder of the shared human experience, emphasizing the importance of connection in the face of mortality. The work ultimately invites readers to consider their own relationships and the legacies they leave behind.

By Edgar Lee Masters · First published 1916 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Philosophical · 174 words

First lines

There would be a knock at the door And I would arise at midnight and go to the shop, Where belated travelers would hear me hammering Sepulchral boards and tacking satin.

And often I wondered who would go with me To the distant land, our names the theme For talk, in the same week, for I've observed Two always go together.

Chase Henry was paired with Edith Conant;

And Jonathan Somers with Willie Metcalf;

What this Textopian page supports

Jeduthan Hawley is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edgar Lee Masters, dated 1916 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Edgar Lee Masters
Date: 1916 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Philosophical, Historical, Narrative
Length: 174 words
Structure: 1 section, 11 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
Literary Fiction — The themes explore human relationships and existential reflections, characteristic of literary fiction.
Philosophical — The text delves into themes of mortality and companionship, prompting philosophical contemplation.
Historical — The setting and character references suggest a historical context, reflecting societal norms of the time.