Summer by George MacDonald (1856)
"Summer" is a novel by George MacDonald that tells the story of a young woman named Marion who lives in a small village in Scotland. The book follows her journey as she navigates love, loss, and personal growth during the summer months. Along the way, she encounters a variety of characters who help shape her understanding of herself and the world around her.
By George MacDonald · First published 1856 · Genre: Poetry, Nature, Romantic · 159 words
First lines
Summer, sweet Summer, many-fingered Summer!
We hold thee very dear, as well we may: It is the kernel of the year to-day -- All hail to thee! thou art a welcome comer!
If every insect were a fairy drummer, And I a fifer that could deftly play, We'd give the old Earth such a roundelay That she would cast all thought of labour from her. -- Ah! what is this upon my window-pane?
Some sulky, drooping cloud comes pouting up, Stamping its glittering feet along the plain! -- Well, I will let that idle fancy drop!
What this Textopian page supports
Summer is listed on Textopian as a poem by George MacDonald, dated 1856 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: 1856 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Nature, Romantic
- Length: 159 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Summer by George MacDonald
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Summer?
- How does this poem by George MacDonald fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form, with a focus on rhythm, meter, and imagery typical of poetry.
- Nature — The themes and imagery are centered around the natural world, particularly the season of summer and its effects on the environment.
- Romantic — The language and tone convey a sense of admiration and emotional connection to the season, characteristic of romantic literature.
Tags
nature · imagination · childhood · fantasy · adventure · innocence · friendship · self-discovery · spirituality · growth · dreams · whimsy