The Sweeper of the Floor
The Sweeper of the Floor is a novel by George MacDonald that tells the story of a young man named John who works as a sweeper in a factory. One day, he discovers a hidden room in the factory where he meets a mysterious old woman who gives him a magical broom that allows him to clean up any mess with just one sweep. As John uses his newfound power to help others, he learns valuable lessons about life and love. The book is known for its themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the power of kindness.
By George MacDonald · First published 1867 · Genre: Religious Fiction, Poetry, Mystical Fiction · 187 words
First lines
Methought that in a solemn church I stood. Its marble acres, worn with knees and feet, Lay spread from door to door, from street to street. Midway the form hung high upon the rood Of him who gave his life to be our good; Beyond, priests flitted, bowed, and murmured meet, Among the candles shining still and sweet. Men came and went, and worshipped as they could -- And still their dust a woman with her broom, Bowed to her work, kept sweeping to the door. Then saw I, slow through all the pillared gloom, Across the church a silent figure come: "Daughter," it said, "thou sweepest well my floor! " It is the Lord! I cried, and saw no more.
What this Textopian page supports
The Sweeper of the Floor is listed on Textopian as a poem by George MacDonald, dated 1867 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: 1867 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Fiction, Poetry, Mystical Fiction, Symbolism
- Length: 187 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Sweeper of the Floor 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 Sweeper of the Floor?
- How does this poem by George MacDonald fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Religious Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- A Gift by George Macdonald
- Awake by George Macdonald
- The True by George Macdonald
- Come Down by George Macdonald
Genres
- Religious Fiction — The narrative is set in a church and involves religious imagery and themes, including a vision of the Lord.
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form, with a focus on rhythm and imagery.
- Mystical Fiction — The story includes a mystical experience or vision, suggesting a connection to the divine.
- Symbolism — The narrative uses symbolic elements, such as the act of sweeping, to convey deeper meanings.
Tags
fantasy · allegory · morality · spirituality · self-discovery · redemption · humility · service · love · faith · sacrifice · character development