To the Clouds by George MacDonald
To the Clouds is a novel by George MacDonald that tells the story of a young man named John who sets out on a journey to find his true self. Along the way, he encounters various obstacles and challenges that test his resolve and force him to confront his own beliefs and values. The book explores themes such as identity, spirituality, and the nature of reality.
By George MacDonald · First published 1867 · Genre: Poetry, Nature, Philosophical · 158 words
First lines
Through the unchanging heaven, as ye have sped, Speed onward still, a strange wild company, Fleet children of the waters! Glorious ye, Whether the sun lift up his shining head, High throned at noontide and established Among the shifting pillars, or we see The sable ghosts of air sleep mournfully Against the sunlight, passionless and dead!
Take thus a glory, oh thou higher Sun, From all the cloudy labour of man's hand -- Whether the quickening nations rise and run, Or in the market-place we idly stand Casting huge shadows over these thy plains -- Even thence, O God, draw thy rich gifts of rains.
What this Textopian page supports
To the Clouds 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: Poetry, Nature, Philosophical, Religious
- Length: 158 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for To the Clouds by George MacDonald
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and imagery, characteristic of poetry.
- Nature — The passage emphasizes natural elements like the sun, clouds, and water, highlighting themes related to nature.
- Philosophical — The text explores abstract concepts such as the relationship between man and nature, suggesting a philosophical undertone.
- Religious — References to God and divine elements suggest a religious or spiritual dimension.
Tags
fantasy · adventure · imagination · childhood · dreams · exploration · nature · whimsy · innocence · friendship · self-discovery · mystery