To My Father
The novel explores the complex and often fraught relationships between fathers and daughters in a patriarchal society. The story revolves around a young woman who seeks to understand her father's past and his emotional unavailability, which has had a profound impact on her life. Through a series of flashbacks and introspective moments, the protagonist uncovers secrets about her family's history, including her father's troubled relationships with his own parents and siblings. As she delves deeper into her family's past, the protagonist comes to terms with her own feelings of anger, resentment, and ultimately, forgiveness towards her father.
By Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward · First published 1878 · Genre: Poetry, Sentimental Literature, Autobiographical · 96 words
First lines
Tired with the little follies of the day, A child crept, sobbing, to your arms to say Her evening prayer; and if by God or you Forgiven and loved, she never asked or knew.
With life's mistake and care too early old, And spent with sorrow upon sorrow told, She finds the father's heart the surest rest; The earliest love shall be the last and best.
What this Textopian page supports
To My Father is listed on Textopian as a poem by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward, dated 1878 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: 1878 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Sentimental Literature, Autobiographical, Religious, Reflective
- Length: 96 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form, with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Sentimental Literature — The themes revolve around deep emotional connections and familial love.
- Autobiographical — The narrative suggests a personal and intimate recounting of the author's experiences and emotions.
- Religious — The mention of evening prayer and forgiveness indicates a spiritual or religious undertone.
Tags
Autobiography · Family Relationships · Father-Daughter Relationship · Memoir · Personal Narrative · Biographical Fiction · American Literature · 19th Century Literature · Women's Writing · Feminist Literature · Social Commentary · Religion