The Room's Width
The novel explores the life of a young woman who returns to her family's old mansion after being away for several years. She finds that the house has been neglected and is in disrepair, much like her own life. As she works to restore the house, she also begins to rebuild her relationships with her family members and confront her past mistakes. Through her journey, the protagonist learns valuable lessons about forgiveness, redemption, and personal growth.
By Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward · First published 1879 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Gothic · 139 words
First lines
I think if I should cross the room, Far as fear; Should stand beside you like a thought -- Touch you, Dear!
Like a fancy. To your sad heart It would seem That my vision passed and prayed you, Or my dream.
Then you would look with lonely eyes -- Lift your head -- And you would stir, and sigh, and say -- "She is dead."
Baffled by death and love, I lean Through the gloom. O Lord of life! am I forbid To cross the room?
What this Textopian page supports
The Room's Width is listed on Textopian as a poem by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward, dated 1879 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: 1879 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Gothic, Philosophical, Drama
- Length: 139 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Room's Width 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 The Room's Width?
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Romance — Themes of love and longing are central to the narrative.
- Gothic — Elements of death, gloom, and the supernatural are present.
- Philosophical — The text explores existential questions about life and death.
Tags
American Literature · 19th Century · Novel · Social Commentary · Feminism · Women's Rights · Marriage · Family · Domesticity · Gender Roles · Societal Expectations · Personal Freedom