State's Attorney Fallas

Name: State's Attorney Fallas
Author: Edgar Lee Masters

The narrative unfolds through the voice of a State's Attorney, who grapples with the moral complexities of justice and personal tragedy. The speaker, initially portrayed as a strict enforcer of the law, reveals a profound internal conflict stemming from the birth of his son, who was rendered an idiot due to a medical mishap. This event transforms his perspective, leading him to dedicate his life to understanding and aiding those with mental illness. As the story progresses, the attorney reflects on his role in the legal system, particularly in the case of Barry Holden, a man accused of murder. The attorney's initial zeal for justice is overshadowed by his personal experiences, prompting him to question the harshness of the law and the societal treatment of the mentally ill. He acknowledges the irony of his position: while he once sought to punish those who break the law, he now sees the humanity in those who suffer from mental afflictions. The narrative delves into themes of guilt, redemption, and the complexities of human existence. The attorney's journey illustrates the struggle between societal expectations and personal empathy, ultimately leading him to a deeper understanding of compassion and the need for reform in the treatment of individuals with mental health issues. The work serves as a poignant exploration of the intersection between law, morality, and the human condition, highlighting the transformative power of personal tragedy on one's worldview.

By Edgar Lee Masters · First published 1914 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Poetry, Drama · 175 words

First lines

I, the scourge-wielder, balance-wrecker, Smiter with whips and swords;

I, hater of the breakers of the law;

I, legalist, inexorable and bitter, Driving the jury to hang the madman, Barry Holden, Was made as one dead by light too bright for eyes, And woke to face a Truth with bloody brow:

Steel forceps fumbled by a doctor's hand Against my boy's head as he entered life Made him an idiot.

What this Textopian page supports

State's Attorney Fallas is listed on Textopian as a short story by Edgar Lee Masters, dated 1914 CE.

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

Work type: Short story
Author: Edgar Lee Masters
Date: 1914 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Poetry, Drama, Psychological Fiction, Social Commentary
Length: 175 words
Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The book explores complex themes of morality, justice, and personal struggle, characteristic of literary fiction.
Poetry — The work employs poetic language and structure, reflecting the emotional depth and stylistic elements of poetry.
Drama — The narrative involves intense personal conflict and moral dilemmas, akin to dramatic storytelling.
Psychological Fiction — The focus on the mental state of characters and the exploration of psychological themes aligns with this genre.