Second Nature by Edith Nesbit (1910)
The narrator reflects on their youthful innocence and carefree nature, comparing it to a toy that can be broken and mended. However, as they grew older, their life became dull and empty, like a cup with dust. They sought comfort in alcohol at the Goat and Vine, which altered their perception of the world, making everything seem more vibrant but also distorted. The narrator's excessive drinking led to physical and mental suffering, causing them to plead for forgiveness and healing from the gods. In response, the gods grant them clarity of mind and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of nature, specifically the dew and dawn. The narrator implores the gods to help humanity recognize the value of simplicity and purity amidst the complexities of lust and love.
By Edith Nesbit · First published 1910 · Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Children's Literature · 325 words
First lines
WHEN I was young how fair the skies, Such folly of cloud, such blue depths wise, Such dews of morn, such calms of eve, So many the lure and the reprieve -- Life seemed a toy to break and mend And make a charm of in the end.
Then slowly all the dew dried up And only dust lay in the cup; And since, to slake his thirst, man must, I sought a cup that had no dust, And found it at the Goat and Vine -- Mingled of brandy, beer and wine.
What this Textopian page supports
Second Nature is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edith Nesbit, dated 1910 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Edith Nesbit
- Date: 1910 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Children's Literature, Victorian Literature
- Length: 325 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Accidental Magic Or Dont Tell All You Know by Edith Nesbit
- Rudy And Babette by Hans Christian Andersen
- The Glass Dog by L. Frank Baum
- Tiktok And The Nome King by L. Frank Baum
- The Valley Of Voices by L. Frank Baum
- The Vain Spell by Edith Nesbit
Genres
- Fantasy — The narrative involves magical elements and supernatural creatures.
- Adventure — The plot revolves around a journey and exploration.
- Children's Literature — The story is written in a manner suitable for young readers.
- Victorian Literature — The setting, themes, and style are characteristic of the Victorian era.
Tags
Fantasy · Children's Literature · Adventure · Magic · Coming of Age · Self-Discovery · Friendship · Growing Up · Imagination · Whimsy · Humor · Satire