Sam Hookey by Edgar Lee Masters
The narrative follows a character who escapes his mundane life by joining a circus, driven by his infatuation with a lion tamer. His reckless passion leads him to confront the lions directly, resulting in his demise at the hands of one of the beasts. After death, he encounters a shadowy figure who condemns him, revealing a connection to historical figures and themes of consequence and judgment. The work explores the interplay between ambition, danger, and the inevitable repercussions of one's choices, reflecting on the nature of existence and the pursuit of passion. The protagonist's journey serves as a commentary on the allure of adventure and the harsh realities that often accompany it, ultimately leading to a confrontation with his own mortality and the moral implications of his actions. The presence of historical allusions adds depth, suggesting a broader commentary on the human condition and the cyclical nature of life and death.
By Edgar Lee Masters · First published 1916 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Tragedy · 105 words
First lines
I ran away from home with the circus, Having fallen in love with Mademoiselle Estralada, The lion tamer.
One time, having starved the lions For more than a day, I entered the cage and began to beat Brutus And Leo and Gypsy.
Whereupon Brutus sprang upon me, And killed me.
On entering these regions I met a shadow who cursed me, And said it served me right.
What this Textopian page supports
Sam Hookey 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, Tragedy, Adventure, Historical Fiction
- Length: 105 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Literary Fiction — The narrative explores complex themes of love, death, and existential reflection.
- Tragedy — The protagonist's downfall and fatal encounter with the lions exemplify tragic elements.
- Adventure — The protagonist's journey with the circus and encounters with danger reflect adventure themes.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · Free Verse · Symbolism · Psychological Insight · Social Commentary · Midwestern Setting · Working Class Life · Marriage and Relationships · Isolation and Loneliness · Mortality and Aging · Memory and Nostalgia