An Interpretation
The novel explores the inner lives of two women, a wealthy widow and her niece, who are bound together by family ties but struggle with their own desires, sense of identity, and moral values. The story delves into themes of social class, gender roles, and personal autonomy as the characters navigate their complex relationships and confront the constraints imposed upon them by societal expectations.
By Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward · First published 1893 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Religious · 134 words
First lines
CHOPIN.
Prelude in C Minor, Opus 28.
From whirlwind to shower, From noon-glare to shadow, From the plough to the vesper, A day is gone. From passion to purpose, From turmoil to rest, From discord to harmony, Life moveth on.
From terror and heartbreak, From anger of anguish, From vigil and famine, A soul has gone. By mercy of mystery, Through trust which is best, To feasting and sleeping now, God calleth on.
What this Textopian page supports
An Interpretation is listed on Textopian as a poem by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward, dated 1893 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
- Date: 1893 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Religious, Literary, Inspirational
- Length: 134 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for An Interpretation by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering An Interpretation?
- How does this poem by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Kings Image by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
- Life by Edith Wharton
- Hymn by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
- Exeat by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
- Afterward by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
- Thorns by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in a poetic form with rhythmic and thematic elements typical of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep existential and metaphysical concepts such as life, death, and the human condition.
- Religious — The text references spiritual and religious ideas, including the mention of God and the soul's journey.
- Literary — The writing style is sophisticated and employs literary devices such as metaphor and symbolism.
Tags
Feminism · Social Commentary · American Literature · 19th Century · Women's Rights · Marriage · Family Dynamics · Gender Roles · Religion · Spirituality · Psychological Insight · Character Study