The House of Tears
The House of Tears is a novel written by Francis Sherman that tells the story of a family living in a small town during the Great Depression. The book follows the struggles and triumphs of the characters as they navigate through difficult times. It explores themes such as poverty, love, loss, and resilience.
By Francis Sherman · First published 1952 · Genre: Poetry, Gothic, Psychological · 166 words
First lines
When in the old years I had dreams of thee Thy dark walls stood in a most barren place; And he within (was his wan face _my_ face? ) Wandered alone and wept continually.
There was no bird to hear, nor sun to see, Nor green thing growing; nor for his release Came sleep; neither forgetfulness nor peace: Whereby I knew that none had sinned as he.
To-day I met him where white lilies gleam; Across our path we watched the sparrows flit; Until -- the sunlight strong in our dry eyes -- He paused with me beside a green-edged stream, Moaning, "I know, where its young waters rise, Remembering, one leaneth over it. "
What this Textopian page supports
The House of Tears is listed on Textopian as a poem by Francis Sherman, dated 1952 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Francis Sherman
- Date: 1952 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Gothic, Psychological, Symbolism, Romanticism
- Length: 166 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The House of Tears by Francis Sherman
- 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 House of Tears?
- How does this poem by Francis Sherman fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Love In Her Cold Grave Lies by Gilbert Parker
- Voices Hushed by Mary Alice Walton
- The Striding Place by Gertrude Atherton
- Sorrow by Carmen Silva
- After by Gilbert Parker
- The House Of Regret by Francis Sherman
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Gothic — Themes of isolation, sorrow, and a haunting atmosphere are prevalent.
- Psychological — Explores deep emotional states and the inner turmoil of the protagonist.
- Symbolism — Uses symbolic imagery such as dark walls, barren places, and white lilies to convey deeper meanings.
Tags
drama · suspense · mystery · family · loss · grief · redemption · secrets · betrayal · love · forgiveness · relationships