Husks by Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1891)
The novel explores the theme of spiritualism and the supernatural through the story of a woman who becomes involved with a group of people claiming to have psychic abilities. As she delves deeper into their world, she begins to question her own sanity and the true nature of the group's leader. The novel is a commentary on the dangers of blindly following charismatic figures and the blurring of lines between reality and the supernatural.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1891 · Genre: Poetry, Drama, Romance · 307 words
First lines
SHE looked at her neighbour's house in the light of the waning day- A shower of rice on the steps, and the shreds of a bride's bouquet. And then she drew the shade, to shut out the growing gloom, But she shut it into her heart instead. (Was that a voice in the room? )
‘My neighbour is sad,' she sighed, ‘like the mother bird who sees The last of her brood fly out of the nest to make its home in the trees'- And then in a passion of tears-‘But, oh, to be sad like her: Sad for a joy that has come and gone! ' (Did some one speak, or stir? )
What this Textopian page supports
Husks is listed on Textopian as a novel by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1891 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Date: 1891 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Drama, Romance, Tragedy, Philosophical Fiction
- Length: 307 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Husks by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Husks?
- How does this novel by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- Ad Finem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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- Sung To A Friend by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
- Half Fledged by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Drama — The narrative explores intense emotional experiences and personal conflicts.
- Romance — Themes of love, loss, and longing are central to the narrative.
- Tragedy — The story deals with sorrow, regret, and the consequences of past choices.
Tags
Romance · Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Love · Nature · Imagery · Symbolism · Feminist · Women's Rights · Social Commentary · Marriage