A Torchbearer by Edith Wharton
The novel explores the idea that certain individuals can transcend mortality through their actions and leave a lasting impact on humanity. These torchbearers are driven by an innate desire to achieve greatness, often in quiet, unassuming ways. They embody a sense of purpose and deliberation, transforming everyday tasks into extraordinary feats. Their lives are marked by a swift transition from intention to action, as if fate itself has intervened. In doing so, they defy the conventional notion of death, rendering it an insignificant milestone. Instead, their existence resonates through eternity, nourishing the human spirit and illuminating the darkness.
By Edith Wharton · First published 1914 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical Literature, Historical Fiction · 576 words
First lines
GREAT cities rise and have their fall; the brass That held their glories moulders in its turn.
Hard granite rots like an uprooted weed, And ever on the palimpsest of earth Impatient Time rubs out the word he writ.
What this Textopian page supports
A Torchbearer is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edith Wharton, dated 1914 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Edith Wharton
- Date: 1914 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical Literature, Historical Fiction
- Length: 576 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse, with a rhythmic and lyrical quality, and uses metaphorical language and imagery.
- Philosophical Literature — The text explores abstract ideas about time, mortality, human will, and the nature of greatness.
- Historical Fiction — The text references the rise and fall of great cities, suggesting a historical context.
Tags
Romance · Novel · Literary Fiction · Classic · American Literature · Early 20th Century · Social Commentary · Upper Class · Marriage · Love Triangle · Infidelity · Adultery