The Mocking Song by Frederic Manning
The Mocking Song is a novel by Frederic Manning that tells the story of a young soldier's experiences during World War I. The book follows Private Bourne, an Australian soldier who enlists in the army and is sent to fight on the Western Front. Through his eyes, we see the horrors of war and the psychological effects it has on soldiers. The novel is known for its realistic depiction of trench warfare and its exploration of themes such as courage, fear, and survival.
By Frederic Manning · First published 1926 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Pastoral · 467 words
First lines
Surely now in the spring-time shall I waken my singing And song shall blossom out of my lips, Glowing, as gloweth the golden crocus of Zeus.
For the soft white flakes of the winter have covered me over With a deep stillness not to be told, And my heart hath gathered honey of many dreams.
What this Textopian page supports
The Mocking Song is listed on Textopian as a short story by Frederic Manning, dated 1926 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Frederic Manning
- Date: 1926 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Pastoral, Mock-Epic
- Length: 467 words
- Structure: 1 section, 18 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Mocking Song by Frederic Manning
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Ganhardines Song by Frederic Manning
- Kore by Frederic Manning
- The Sign by Frederic Manning
- The Beloved by Frederic Manning
- The Poplar Richard Aldington by D. H. Lawrence
- A Passing Bell by D. H. Lawrence
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form, with a focus on lyrical expression and imagery.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential reflections on life, fulfillment, and the contrast between material and spiritual wealth.
- Pastoral — The imagery and themes are deeply connected to nature, celebrating its beauty and bounty.
- Mock-Epic — The tone and style employ mockery and irony, elevating mundane subjects to a grandiose level.
Tags
poetry · war · identity · loss · grief · memory · human experience · nature · existentialism · modernism · narrative · emotional depth