
The Prism by George MacDonald (1864)
The Prism is a novel by George MacDonald that explores themes of love, faith, and redemption. The story follows the journey of a young man named Paul Faber as he navigates his way through life's challenges and ultimately finds salvation in God. Along the way, he encounters various characters who help him grow and learn valuable lessons about himself and the world around him. Overall, The Prism is a thought-provoking and inspiring read that will leave readers with much to ponder.
By George MacDonald · First published 1864 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Philosophical · 359 words
First lines
I. A pool of broken sunbeams lay Upon the passage-floor, Radiant and rich, profound and gay As ever diamond bore.
Small, flitting hands a handkerchief Spread like a cunning trap: Prone lay the gorgeous jewel-sheaf In the glory-gleaner's lap!
What this Textopian page supports
The Prism is listed on Textopian as a poem by George MacDonald, dated 1864 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: 1864 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Philosophical, Fantasy
- Length: 359 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Prism 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 The Prism?
- 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
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Religious — The themes include divine grace and prayer, reflecting religious and spiritual elements.
- Philosophical — The work explores abstract concepts such as the nature of gifts and divine presence, indicative of philosophical inquiry.
- Fantasy — Imagery of sunbeams and jewels suggests a fantastical element, though it is metaphorical.
Tags
fantasy · allegory · spirituality · imagination · morality · adventure · self-discovery · mythical · narrative · dreams · light · darkness
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