Spent
The novel explores the life of a young woman who rejects the societal expectations placed upon her and instead pursues a career as an artist. The protagonist's decision to prioritize her artistic ambitions over marriage and domesticity leads to ostracism by her family and community. Through her struggles, the novel examines the limitations imposed on women during the late 19th century and advocates for their economic independence and creative freedom.
By Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward · First published 1872 · Genre: Poetry, Romantic, Tragedy · 188 words
First lines
Heart of iron, smile of ice, Oh! the rock. See him stand as dumb as death. If you could, Would you care to stir or shock Him, think you, by a blow or breath, From his mood?
Arms of velvet, lips of love, Oh! the wave. See her creeping to his feet Trustfully. None shall know the sign he gave. Death since then, were all too sweet. Let her die.
Lift thine eyes upon the sea, Soul of stone. Rather (wouldst thou breathe or move? ) I would be A warm wave, faithful, wasted, thrown, Spent and rent and dead with love, Than be thee.
What this Textopian page supports
Spent is listed on Textopian as a poem by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward, dated 1872 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: 1872 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romantic, Tragedy, Symbolism, Drama
- Length: 188 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Spent by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Spent?
- How does this poem by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse with a focus on rhythm and imagery.
- Romantic — Themes of love, trust, and emotional conflict are central to the work.
- Tragedy — The narrative explores themes of death, loss, and unfulfilled desires.
- Symbolism — The use of metaphors and symbols like 'rock' and 'wave' to convey deeper meanings is prominent.
Tags
Feminism · Social Commentary · Marriage · Women's Rights · 19th Century · American Literature · Domesticity · Gender Roles · Economic Independence · Patriarchy · Middle Class · Family Life