The Sage by Ellen Glasgow (1924)
The novel revolves around the life of a wealthy and influential family in Virginia during the late 19th century. The story centers on the character of Margaret Randolph, who embodies the traditional values of the aristocratic South. Through her experiences, the novel explores themes such as social class, morality, and the decline of the old aristocracy.
By Ellen Glasgow · First published 1924 · Genre: Philosophical Poetry, Reflective Poetry, Spiritual Poetry · 286 words
First lines
I do not see the lightning's flash, Nor hear the thunder's din; What though the storms about me crash -- My refuge is within.
Though every evil stands confest, And every pleasure flies, I bear a world within my breast, A light within my eyes.
Of every fount from out the earth I, too, have drunk my fill, And all the joys I count of worth Become my own at will.
Though I have never loved a maid, Love's heights I may ascend; Though no friend's hand my own has stayed, I still can pledge my friend.
What this Textopian page supports
The Sage is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ellen Glasgow, dated 1924 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Ellen Glasgow
- Date: 1924 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Philosophical Poetry, Reflective Poetry, Spiritual Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Existential Poetry
- Length: 286 words
- Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Sage by Ellen Glasgow
- 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 The Sage?
- How does this poem by Ellen Glasgow fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Philosophical Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Hunter by Ellen Glasgow
- To A Strange God by Ellen Glasgow
- Resurrection by Ellen Glasgow
- A Suppliant by Ellen Glasgow
- Reunion by Ellen Glasgow
- The Traveller by Ellen Glasgow
Genres
- Philosophical Poetry — The poem explores deep philosophical themes such as inner peace, self-reliance, and the nature of existence.
- Reflective Poetry — The poem is introspective, focusing on the speaker's internal state and personal reflections on life and emotions.
- Spiritual Poetry — The poem delves into spiritual concepts, discussing the soul, inner light, and transcendence beyond physical experiences.
- Lyric Poetry — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts in a lyrical manner, characteristic of lyric poetry.
Tags
Romance · Historical Fiction · Southern Gothic · Family Drama · Social Class · Wealth · Power Struggle · Marriage · Infidelity · Adultery · Deception · Loyalty