Subsidy by George MacDonald (1893)
Subsidy 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 class and circumstance but ultimately find their way back to each other through a series of unexpected events. Along the way, they encounter a cast of colorful characters, including a wealthy merchant, a mysterious stranger, and a wise old woman who helps guide them on their journey. The book is known for its vivid descriptions of Victorian-era England and its exploration of timeless human emotions.
By George MacDonald · First published 1893 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Religious · 172 words
First lines
If thou wouldst live the Truth in very deed, Thou hast thy joy, but thou hast more of pain.
Others will live in peace, and thou be fain To bargain with despair, and in thy need To make thy meal upon the scantiest weed.
These palaces, for thee they stand in vain; Thine is a ruinous hut, and oft the rain Shall drench thee in the midnight; yea, the speed Of earth outstrip thee, pilgrim, while thy feet Move slowly up the heights. Yet will there come Through the time-rents about thy moving cell, _Shot from the Truth's own bow, and flaming sweet,_ An arrow for despair, and oft the hum Of far-off populous realms where spirits dwell.
What this Textopian page supports
Subsidy 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, Religious, Allegory
- Length: 172 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Subsidy by George MacDonald
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form, with a focus on rhythm and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential and metaphysical concepts, such as truth, despair, and spiritual journey.
- Religious — The work contains spiritual and moral undertones, reflecting on the soul's journey and divine truth.
- Allegory — The narrative uses symbolic elements to convey deeper moral and philosophical meanings.
Tags
fantasy · allegory · morality · social commentary · Victorian literature · imagination · spirituality · character development · narrative · ethics · adventure · family