In Bonds by George MacDonald (1893)
Bonds is a novel by George MacDonald that explores the themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption. The story follows the lives of two young lovers who are separated by circumstances beyond their control. Throughout the book, they struggle to maintain their bond despite the obstacles in their way. Ultimately, they find a way back to each other through acts of selflessness and forgiveness.
By George MacDonald · First published 1893 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual · 116 words
First lines
Of the poor bird that cannot fly Kindly you think and mournfully; For prisoners and for exiles all You let the tears of pity fall; And very true the grief should be That mourns the bondage of the free.
The soul -- _she_ has a fatherland; Binds _her_ not many a tyrant's hand?
And the winged spirit has a home, But can she always homeward come?
Poor souls, with all their wounds and foes, Will you not also pity those?
What this Textopian page supports
In Bonds is listed on Textopian as a poem by George MacDonald, dated 1893 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: George MacDonald
- Date: 1893 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual, Literary
- Length: 116 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for In Bonds by George MacDonald
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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- How does this poem by George MacDonald fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles
- To Any One by George Macdonald
- That Holy Thing by George Macdonald
- Salvation by Charles Kingsley
- The Burnt Offering by George Macdonald
- The Carpenter by George Macdonald
- A Better Thing by George Macdonald
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form, with a focus on rhythm and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep existential questions about freedom, the soul, and the human condition.
- Spiritual — The text references the soul and spirit, suggesting a focus on spiritual or metaphysical themes.
- Literary — The use of metaphor and symbolic language indicates a literary style aimed at exploring complex themes.
Tags
Christianity · faith · redemption · spirituality · love · forgiveness · suffering · grace · humanity · sacrifice · morality · soul