A Prayer by George MacDonald (1867)
A Prayer is a novel by George MacDonald that explores themes of faith and spirituality. The story follows the journey of a young man named David Elginbrod, who struggles to find meaning in his life after experiencing tragedy. Through his interactions with various characters, including a wise old woman named Lady Arctura, David learns about the power of prayer and the importance of trusting in God's plan for his life. The book is known for its beautiful prose and thought-provoking themes, making it a classic work of Christian literature.
By George MacDonald · First published 1867 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Reflective · 101 words
First lines
When I look back upon my life nigh spent, Nigh spent, although the stream as yet flows on, I more of follies than of sins repent, Less for offence than Love's shortcomings moan. With self, O Father, leave me not alone -- Leave not with the beguiler the beguiled; Besmirched and ragged, Lord, take back thine own: A fool I bring thee to be made a child.
What this Textopian page supports
A Prayer is listed on Textopian as a short story by George MacDonald, dated 1867 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: George MacDonald
- Date: 1867 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Reflective, Philosophical
- Length: 101 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Prayer by George MacDonald
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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 A Prayer?
- How does this short story by George MacDonald fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- To My God by George Macdonald
- A Song Prayer by George Macdonald
- Prayer by George Macdonald
- Song Sermon by George Macdonald
- An Evening Prayer by George Macdonald
- Come To Me by George Macdonald
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form, with a focus on rhythm and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Religious — The themes revolve around repentance, divine intervention, and a plea to a higher power, which are central to religious literature.
- Reflective — The content involves introspection and contemplation of past actions, typical of reflective writing.
- Philosophical — The text explores existential themes such as the nature of sin and self-improvement, aligning with philosophical discourse.
Tags
prayer · faith · spirituality · devotion · Christianity · meditation · reflection · hope · grace · surrender · soul · divine