Two Backgrounds by Edith Wharton
The story revolves around two individuals living in a peaceful and prosperous city surrounded by a river. They have resigned themselves to a life of calmness and tranquility, free from worldly desires and troubles. However, their lives take a dramatic turn when they encounter an enigmatic and elusive woman, reminiscent of the Mona Lisa, who seems to embody the essence of dreams and illusions. As they become drawn to her, they begin to experience a sense of longing and unfulfilled desire, which contrasts with their previously peaceful existence.
By Edith Wharton · First published 1935 · Genre: Poetry, Gothic, Romantic · 301 words
What this Textopian page supports
Two Backgrounds is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edith Wharton, dated 1935 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: 1935 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Gothic, Romantic, Fantasy
- Length: 301 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Two Backgrounds?
- How does this poem by Edith Wharton fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- A Meeting by Edith Wharton
- Discretion by Edith Nesbit
- The Traveller by Ellen Glasgow
- The Age Of Innocence by Edith Wharton
- Reunion by Ellen Glasgow
- The Quarrel by Edith Nesbit
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, with a rhythmic structure and use of poetic devices such as metaphor and imagery.
- Gothic — The work contains elements of the Gothic genre, including a focus on the sublime and the supernatural, as well as a sense of mystery and fear.
- Romantic — The work explores themes of love and passion, and employs a highly emotional and personal style, characteristic of the Romantic genre.
- Fantasy — The work includes elements of the fantastical, with references to dreams, illusions, and otherworldly landscapes.
Tags
Social Class · Marriage · Love Triangle · Infidelity · Upper Class · Society · Etiquette · Moral Dilemma · Adultery · Deception · Secrets · Lies