Present Imperative
The story revolves around a man who is struggling to find meaning and purpose in his life. He feels disconnected from society and is searching for a way to break free from the monotony of daily routine. Through his experiences, he grapples with existential questions about the nature of reality and his place within it. The narrative explores themes of alienation, disillusionment, and the search for authenticity. The protagonist's inner turmoil reflects the societal pressures and expectations that are suffocating him, leading to a sense of disconnection from others and himself. As he navigates through various relationships and experiences, the man begins to question the values and norms that govern his life. He starts to see the world around him as superficial and artificial, which further exacerbates his feelings of isolation and disconnection. Ultimately, the story presents a bleak portrayal of modern society, highlighting the emptiness and disillusionment that can result from conforming to societal expectations. The narrative suggests that true fulfillment and purpose can only be found by breaking free from these constraints and embracing one's individuality.
By Franklin P. Adams · First published 1925 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Classical Adaptation · 241 words
First lines
Horace: Book I, Ode 11 _"Tu ne quaesieris -- scire nefas -- quem mihi; quem tibi"_ AD LEUCONOEN
Nay, query not, Leuconoe, the finish of the fable; Eliminate the worry as to what the years may hoard!
You only waste your time upon the Babylonian Table -- (Slang for the Ouija board).
And as to whether Jupiter, the final, unsurpassed one, May add a lot of winters to our portion here below, Or this impinging season is to be our very last one -- Really, I'd hate to know.
What this Textopian page supports
Present Imperative is listed on Textopian as an essay by Franklin P. Adams, dated 1925 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Franklin P. Adams
- Date: 1925 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Classical Adaptation, Humor, Didactic
- Length: 241 words
- Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Present Imperative by Franklin P. Adams
- 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 Present Imperative?
- How does this essay by Franklin P. Adams fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- Despite by Franklin P. Adams
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- The Triumph Of American Humor by Oscar Wilde
- Horace The Wise by Franklin P. Adams
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions and the nature of time, reflecting philosophical inquiry.
- Classical Adaptation — The text is an adaptation of a classical work by Horace, indicating a genre of classical reinterpretation.
- Humor — The use of wit and light-hearted commentary, such as the reference to the Ouija board, suggests a humorous tone.
Tags
Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · American Literature · 20th Century Fiction · Short Story Collection · Wit · Sarcasm · Irony · Critique of Society · Commentary on Politics · Observations on Human Nature