A Man Could Stand Up

Name: A Man Could Stand Up
Author: Ford Madox Ford

The narrative unfolds in a post-World War I setting, focusing on Valentine Wannop, a physical instructor at a girls' school, who receives a phone call that disrupts her routine. The call brings news of a man from her past, Christopher Tietjens, a soldier whose life has been deeply affected by the war. As Valentine grapples with the implications of this news, she reflects on her own life choices, societal expectations, and the impact of the war on personal relationships. Valentine's character is marked by her independence and a desire for freedom, yet she feels the weight of societal norms and the expectations placed upon women. The phone call serves as a catalyst for her introspection, leading her to question her future and the potential for missed experiences, such as marriage and motherhood. The narrative captures her internal conflict as she balances her aspirations with the realities of her life. Meanwhile, Tietjens is portrayed as a complex figure, embodying the struggles of returning soldiers who face the aftermath of war. His character is defined by a sense of duty and a deep connection to his past, particularly to Valentine. The story explores themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in a world that has been irrevocably changed by conflict. As the plot progresses, the characters' lives intersect, revealing the lingering effects of war on their identities and relationships. The narrative delves into the emotional landscape of both Valentine and Tietjens, highlighting their struggles to navigate a society that has shifted dramatically in the wake of the war. Ultimately, the work examines the complexities of human connection, the impact of historical events on personal lives, and the quest for self-understanding in a world marked by trauma and change. The characters' journeys reflect broader themes of resilience, the search for belonging, and the enduring power of love amidst adversity.

By Ford Madox Ford · First published 1914 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Modernist, Historical Fiction · 11 chapters · 83,260 words

First lines

Slowly, amidst intolerable noises from, on the one hand the street and, on the other, from the large and voluminously echoing playground, the depths of the telephone began, for Valentine, to assume an aspect that, years ago it had used to have -- of being a part of the supernatural paraphernalia of inscrutable Destiny.

What this Textopian page supports

A Man Could Stand Up is listed on Textopian as a novel by Ford Madox Ford, dated 1914 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Ford Madox Ford
Date: 1914 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Modernist, Historical Fiction, Psychological Fiction, Drama
Length: 83,260 words
Structure: 11 chapters, 1,488 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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How does this novel by Ford Madox Ford fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The book explores complex characters and themes, focusing on the human condition and societal issues.
Modernist — The narrative style and structure reflect modernist techniques, emphasizing subjective experience and fragmented reality.
Historical Fiction — Set against the backdrop of World War I, it incorporates historical elements and the impact of war on society.
Psychological Fiction — The novel delves into the inner thoughts and emotions of characters, examining their psychological states.