On a Midge by George MacDonald
On a Midge is a short story by George MacDonald about a man who becomes obsessed with catching a midge (a small insect) in order to prove his superiority over nature. The story explores themes of pride, humility, and the relationship between humans and the natural world.
By George MacDonald · First published 1863 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Nature · 158 words
First lines
Whence do ye come, ye creatures? Each of you Is perfect as an angel! wings and eyes Stupendous in their beauty -- gorgeous dyes In feathery fields of purple and of blue!
Would God I saw a moment as ye do!
I would become a molecule in size, Rest with you, hum with you, or slanting rise Along your one dear sunbeam, could I view The pearly secret which each tiny fly -- Each tiny fly that hums and bobs and stirs Hides in its little breast eternally From you, ye prickly, grim philosophers With all your theories that sound so high: Hark to the buz a moment, my good sirs!
What this Textopian page supports
On a Midge is listed on Textopian as a poem by George MacDonald, dated 1863 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: 1863 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Nature, Fantasy
- Length: 158 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for On a Midge by George MacDonald
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering On a Midge?
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and imagery.
- Philosophical — The work explores existential questions and the nature of perception.
- Nature — The content centers around the beauty and mystery of natural creatures.
- Fantasy — The desire to become a molecule and experience the world from a different perspective suggests fantastical elements.
Tags
fantasy · allegory · nature · insects · imagination · childhood · whimsy · adventure · philosophy · spirituality · metaphor · creativity