To Alice -- Sit -- by -- the -- Hour
The story revolves around a young woman who sits for an hour with a man she has just met, and the conversation that unfolds between them. It explores themes of loneliness, human connection, and the complexities of relationships in urban life during the early 20th century. The narrative delves into the inner lives of its characters, examining their thoughts, emotions, and motivations as they navigate this chance encounter.
By Franklin P. Adams · First published 1923 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Social Commentary · 253 words
First lines
Lady in the blue kimono, you that live across the way, One may see you gazing, gazing, gazing all the livelong day, Idly looking out your window from your vantage point above. Are you convalescent, lady? Are you worse? Are you in love?
Ever gazing, as you hang there on the little window seat, Into flats across the way or down upon the prosy street. Can't you rent a pianola? Can't you iron, sew, or cook? Write a letter, bake a pudding, make a bed or read a book?
What this Textopian page supports
To Alice -- Sit -- by -- the -- Hour is listed on Textopian as a poem by Franklin P. Adams, dated 1923 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Franklin P. Adams
- Date: 1923 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Satire, Social Commentary, Romantic, Urban Life
- Length: 253 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for To Alice -- Sit -- by -- the -- Hour 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
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a rhythmic and lyrical quality, typical of poetry.
- Satire — The poem uses humor and irony to critique the idle lifestyle of the lady in the blue kimono.
- Social Commentary — The poem reflects on societal norms and expectations, particularly regarding leisure and productivity.
- Romantic — There are elements of romantic longing and speculation about love in the narrative.
Tags
Humor · Satire · Poetry · Literary Fiction · American Literature · 20th Century Literature · Short Story Collection · Comedic Prose · Social Commentary · Cultural Satire · Wit · Wordplay