Incompletion
The novel revolves around a romantic triangle between three characters: Richard, a wealthy businessman; Margaret, his fiancée; and Emily, a poor but talented artist. The story explores themes of social class, identity, and the constraints placed on women during the late 19th century. Through the characters' relationships and struggles, the novel critiques the societal expectations that limit individuals' potential and happiness.
By Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward · First published 1870 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Romantic · 124 words
First lines
Perhaps the bud lost from the loaded tree The sweetest blossom of the May would be;
Or wildest song that summer could have heard Is dumb within the throat of the dead bird.
The perfect statue that all men have sought May in some crippled hand be hid, unwrought.
Which of our dearest dead betook his flight Into the rose-red star that fell last night?
What this Textopian page supports
Incompletion is listed on Textopian as a poem by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward, dated 1870 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: 1870 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Romantic, Reflective, Tragic
- Length: 124 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Incompletion 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 Incompletion?
- 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?
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a focus on rhyme and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep existential questions and the nature of incompletion.
- Romantic — There are elements of unfulfilled love and emotional longing.
- Reflective — The writing style is introspective and contemplative.
Tags
American Literature · Novel · Romance · Social Commentary · Feminism · Women's Rights · Marriage · Family · Relationships · Love · Society · Class