Barriers Burned Away

Name: Barriers Burned Away
Author: Edward Payson Roe

In a remote prairie home during a fierce winter storm, a sick man, Dennis, and his anxious wife await the return of their son, who is crucial to their family's survival. The husband, embittered by a life of misfortune, expresses his despair and questions God's goodness. His wife, Ethel, tries to maintain hope, believing their son will return safely. When the son arrives, he brings relief and a sense of unity to the family, but the father's bitterness remains a heavy burden. As the story unfolds, Dennis's struggles with poverty and disappointment are juxtaposed with his wife's unwavering faith and resilience. The narrative explores themes of suffering, faith, and the search for meaning in hardship. Dennis's character evolves as he confronts his past failures and seeks redemption, while Ethel embodies hope and love, striving to uplift her family despite their dire circumstances. The arrival of their son catalyzes a turning point for Dennis, who begins to reconsider his relationship with God and the nature of his suffering. The family's dynamic shifts as they navigate their challenges together, ultimately leading to moments of reconciliation and understanding. The story culminates in Dennis's acceptance of his circumstances and a renewed sense of purpose, as he learns to appreciate the small joys in life and the strength of familial bonds. The narrative emphasizes the importance of faith, love, and the human spirit's capacity to endure and overcome adversity, ultimately portraying a journey from despair to hope and redemption.

By Edward Payson Roe · First published 1873 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance, Social Commentary · 50 chapters · 168,449 words

First lines

From its long sweep over the unbroken prairie a heavier blast than usual shook the slight frame house. The windows rattled in the casements, as if shivering in their dumb way in the December storm. So open and defective was the dwelling in its construction, that eddying currents of cold air found admittance at various points -- in some instances carrying with them particles of the fine, sharp, hail-like snow that the gale was driving before it in blinding fury.

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Barriers Burned Away is listed on Textopian as a novel by Edward Payson Roe, dated 1873 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Edward Payson Roe
Date: 1873 CE
Language: English
Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Social Commentary, Adventure, Religious Fiction
Length: 168,449 words
Structure: 50 chapters, 2,850 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Genres

Historical Fiction — The novel is set against a historical backdrop, exploring themes relevant to its time period.
Romance — Central to the plot are romantic relationships that drive character development and conflict.
Social Commentary — The book addresses social issues and moral dilemmas, reflecting on societal norms and values.
Adventure — The characters experience various challenges and journeys that contribute to the narrative's excitement.