The Failing Track
The Failing Track is a novel by George MacDonald that tells the story of a young man named John who struggles with his faith and purpose in life. The book explores themes of spirituality, morality, and personal growth as John navigates through various challenges and obstacles on his journey towards self-discovery.
By George MacDonald · First published 1865 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational · 271 words
First lines
Where went the feet that hitherto have come?
Here yawns no gulf to quench the flowing past!
With lengthening pauses broke, the path grows dumb; The grass floats in; the gazer stands aghast.
Tremble not, maiden, though the footprints die; By no air-path ascend the lark's clear notes; The mighty-throated when he mounts the sky Over some lowly landmark sings and floats.
What this Textopian page supports
The Failing Track is listed on Textopian as a short story by George MacDonald, dated 1865 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: 1865 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational, Fantasy
- Length: 271 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Failing Track by George MacDonald
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Failing Track?
- 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
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- Overcoming by Gilbert Parker
- Endurance by George William Russell
- Failure by George Macdonald
- Victorious Failure by Bryce Walton
- Shine On by Gilbert Parker
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions and the nature of guidance and destiny, typical of philosophical literature.
- Inspirational — The content encourages perseverance and self-discovery, aligning with inspirational themes.
- Fantasy — The use of metaphorical language and imagery suggests a fantastical interpretation of reality.
Tags
failure · redemption · personal growth · struggle · self-discovery · adversity · hope · resilience · journey · relationships · conflict · overcoming obstacles