Three Friends
The novel explores the lives of three friends, Faith, Nan, and Mercy, who grow up together in a small New England town. The story revolves around their relationships, struggles, and personal growth as they navigate love, loss, and social expectations.
By Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward · First published 1882 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical · 660 words
First lines
Oh, not to you, my mentor sweet, And stern as only sweetness can, Whose grave eyes look out steadfastly Across my nature's plan,
And take unerring measure down Where'er that plan is failed or foiled, Thinking far less of purpose kept Than of a vision spoiled.
What this Textopian page supports
Three Friends is listed on Textopian as a poem by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward, dated 1882 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: 1882 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical, Spiritual, Psychological
- Length: 660 words
- Structure: 1 section, 17 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Three Friends 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 Three Friends?
- 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
- Comrades by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Half Fledged by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Assistance by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- A New Friend by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
- Love Well The Hour by Edith Nesbit
- Sung To A Friend by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Romance — Themes of love and emotional connection are central to the narrative.
- Philosophical — The work explores deep questions about human nature, purpose, and self-perception.
- Spiritual — There are references to spiritual and religious concepts, such as the soul and Heaven.
Tags
Friendship · Women's Fiction · American Literature · 19th Century · Social Commentary · Romance · Marriage · Family · Society · Class Divide · Gender Roles · Feminism