The Pool by Frederic Manning (1929)
The Pool is a novel by Frederic Manning that follows the story of an Australian soldier during World War I. The book is known for its realistic and graphic depiction of war, including descriptions of trench life and combat. It has been praised for its literary merit and historical accuracy.
By Frederic Manning · First published 1929 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Romantic · 164 words
First lines
My soul is like a lake, whose waters glass Stars, and the silver clouds which uncontrolled Sail through the heavens, and the hills which fold Its valley in a peace, tall reeds, and grass, And all the wandering flights of birds, that pass Through the bright air; and, in itself, doth hold Naiads with smooth white limbs and hair of gold: So is my dreaming soul. And yet, alas!
It holds but visions, unsubstantial things.
Transient, momentary; and the feet Of winds that smite the waters, blur the whole.
Shattering with the hurrying pulse of wings That crystal quiet, which hath grown so sweet With fragile reveries. Such is my soul.
What this Textopian page supports
The Pool is listed on Textopian as a poem by Frederic Manning, dated 1929 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Frederic Manning
- Date: 1929 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Romantic
- Length: 164 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Pool by Frederic Manning
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Pool?
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Similar titles
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- Parting by George William Russell
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- The Memory by Gilbert Parker
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form, employing poetic devices such as metaphor and imagery to convey introspective themes.
- Philosophical — The work explores abstract concepts related to the nature of the soul and existence, reflecting on transient and ephemeral qualities.
- Romantic — The use of nature imagery and the focus on personal emotion and introspection align with Romantic literary themes.
Tags
friendship · loss · identity · memory · nostalgia · urban life · relationships · self-discovery · introspection · human experience · existentialism · social commentary